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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 1 VOLUME 11, NUMBER 6, MARCH 15th 2003 PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID Permit #2438 MIAMI FL 331 Renew your subscription before the expiration date shown in the label below. The Abaconian 9945 NW 88th Ave Medley, FL 33178 Forward and Address Correction Police Station Opens in Crown HavenSgt. Moss, an Abaco Favorite, Is Assigned to Little Abaco Police Band Entertains Students Methodists Hold Special ServiceThe Hon. Cynthia Mother Pratt, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, commissioned a new police station in Crown Haven on March 7. She is shown here unveiling the new Police Station sign. They are using part of the old Crown Haven Primary School which was left empty when that school was consolidated with the Fox Town Primary School. The community of Crown Haven asked for the station and did the necessary renovating to prepare it and the nearby residence for the officers stat ioned in their town. Pictured above are, left to right, Sgt. Moss, Officer in Charge of Little Abaco; ASP Clarence Russell, Officer i n Charge of Abaco; ACP Ellison Greenslade, Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of the Northern Bahamas; Mrs. Pratt; Freeport Officer Prince Cornish; Mr. Gary Knowles, Administrator for North Abaco; Mr. Steve Pedican, Chief Councillor for the North Abaco District Council; Mr. Errol Ferguson, Chief Immigration Officer for Abaco; and ASP Leland Russell, recently transferred from Abaco to Freeport. The Royal Bahamas Police Band entertained the students of Central Abaco Primary School on March 7. They performed as part of the program of the schools celebration of Bahamian History Month. The band was on Abaco to perform at the opening of the new Police Station in Crown Haven. The children were fascinated and especially enjoyed the band master when he relaxed into a casual dance step. A well attended Fellowship Service of the Methodist Churches on Abaco was held on March 8 at St. Andrews Methodist Church in Dundas Town. Dr. Reg Elden, Secretary of the Methodist Conference, was the special speaker. Their guests included the members of the Kiwanis Club attending their National Convention which was held in Marsh Harbour that same weekend. Shown above are members of the Kiwanis Club and their wives which included several police officers. Marsh Harbour Committee Speaks OutThe elected members of the Marsh Harbour / Spring City Town Committee recently discussed many topics and issues with The Abaconian It has been eight months since they took office and they want to voice their collective feelings about the situation which exists in Central Abaco. The group is disturbed and frustrated that they are not Please see M. Harbour Page 3 Residents of Crown Haven now have what they wanted a police station in their town. This past January they asked the Hon. Cynthia Mother Pratt, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for National Security, for a police station and showed her a possible location. On March 7 Mrs. Pratt returned to Crown Haven to officially commission the new station. The residents were especially pleased when it was announced that the officer-in-charge of Little Abaco would be Sgt. James Moss, a favorite officer who has served on Abaco previously. The office will have three officers. Cpl. Derek Ferguson and Officer Cory Scott will work with Sgt. Moss who will also be in charge of the two officers at the Fox Town Police Station to provide police services to Little Abaco. In a joint effort between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of National Security, part of the abandoned school building in Crown Haven has been converted into a police station while the teachers residence with two apartments will now house the three officers. The people of Crown Haven raised the money and did the work to make this conversion. The official opening on March 7 was the culminating activity to celebrate their effort. ASP Clarence Russell, officer in charge of Abaco, pointed out that Crown Haven is the gateway to North Abaco from Grand Please see Pratt Page 2

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Page 2 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 UNITED ABACO SHIPPING COMPANYOffice located above B&D Marine at the traffic lightWeekly freight between W. Palm Beach, Nassau, & Marsh Harbour General Cargo, 20 & 40 ft. Containers, Drive-on Stern Ramp 20 ft. Refrigerated ContainersSpecify M/V DUKE OF TOPSAIL Sailing ScheduleIn Abaco Call (242) 367-2091, Fax (242) 367-2235 or call on VHF ch. 16 P.O. Box AB 20737, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas In USA call Palm Beach Steamship Company at (561) 844-5387 Warehouse A 2nd door, 158 B East Port Road, Riviera Beach, Fl 33404 Sunday Depart Marsh Harbour Monday Arrive Port of Palm Beach Monday Depart Port of Palm Beach Tuesday Arrive Marsh Harbour Wednesday Depart Marsh Harbour Thursday Arrive Arawak Cay, Nassau Thursday Depart Arawak Cay, Nassau Friday Arrive Marsh Harbour World Famous Grilled Food & CocktailsWild Wednesday Happy Hour 5 11 At Harbour View Marina Marsh Harbour Phone 367-2278snappas@msn.comOpen 11 am until. . 7 days a week Happy Hour Daily 5 7:30Major Credit Cards accepted bahamian cuisine on Hope Town's waterfrontBar Opens Daily 10 a.m.Closed on TuesdaysHappy Hour 5 6 p.m .Lunch & Dinner DailyLunch 11:30 am 3 pm Dinner 6 9 pmAppetizers 11:30 a.m. 9 p.m Call 366-0087 366-0292 VHF Ch 16ICEICE ICEICE ICE RENTRENT RENTRENT RENT ALAL ALAL AL BIKESBIKES BIKESBIKES BIKES NIPPERSBEACH BAR & GRILLon Guana Cay Serving Lunch & DinnerPig Roast Every SundayBahama. Travel between Grand Bahama and Crown Haven has increased recently and the police department is responding to the needs of the community. Lawbreakers who use this community as an escape route either to or from Grand Bahama now have nowhere to run, except into the hands of the police. Mrs. Pratt commended the community on its efforts to bring this about at no cost to the government. She pointed out that when we try to make our lives better it is not for ourselves but for our children. She mentioned that the town took charge of its own affairs to keep their community free of crime. They came together to prepare the buildings so that the police department could come. She said, I am of the firm belief that when citizens take responsibility for their communities, positive results can be achieved. Therefore, it appears that you are well on your way to keeping your community safe and secure for residents and visitors alike. Assistant Commissioner of Police Ellison Greenslade, who is in charge of the Northern Bahamas, mentioned that this was the third visit of Mrs. Pratt to North Abaco in the past few months. She is committed to seeing that the security in this country is the best it can be. The full program featured religious and cultural presentations by the children and adults of the community. Then came a spectacular performance by the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band. With their colorful uniforms, their lively music and their precision maneuvering, they entertained the crowd. The Police Department also made two demonstrations by Wolf, a trained German Shepard with the Police K-9 Unit, which thrilled the crowd. Wolf is trained asDeputy Prime Minister Commissions Station PrattFrom Page 1 an attack dog and vividly demonstrated his effectiveness at bringing down a police officer acting as a criminal. There was no need to hold the crowd back during these demonstrations as the dog definitely meant business as he subdued his victim. Mrs. Pratt officially opened the new station by unveiling the plaque mounted on the outside wall. The police then executed a maneuver called striking the flag where they raised one police flag at the station while laying down a different one to proclaim the new station open.Sgt. Moss Returns to AbacoThe crowd erupted in applause and cheers when it was announced that Sgt. James Moss was being reassigned to Abaco. This favorite police officer will be in charge of the two police stations on Little Abaco. The announcement was made at the commissioning of the police station in Crown Haven on March 7. Sgt. Moss, who served in Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay a few years ago, was a popular officer as he carried out his duties. His care and concern for the people in his care was always very obvious. Abaco people showed their love when he was transferred to Freeport by holding a banquet at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Treasure Cay in his honor, a very rare demonstration of support. He is truly committed to being a community officer. During an interview Sgt. Moss promised to perform to the best of his ability. He wants Little Abaco to be an example of teamwork, of people working with police for the betterment of their communities. He wants to work with the youth and parents to identify deficiencies and develop programs which will involve the youth in sports programs. He wants to identify their skills and interests such as basketball and organize training and competitions. It will be clean fun on the basketball court instead of the young people showing up in the court of law. He wants the participation of the community and realizes the importance of team work of the police and the community. He thanks God that he is alive and is committed to accept his responsibility. The K-9 Unit of the Royal Bahamas Police Force gave a demonstration of the effectivness of their attack dogs at the opening of a Police Station in Crown Haven on March 7. Wolf successfully brought down police officers, each posing as a law-breaker. He showed perfect discipline as he carried out his orders. The Police have dogs trained to detect drugs and others to detect firearms as well as those trained to attack. Sgt. James Moss

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 3able to accomplished the goals that they have set for themselves. They further feel that the local government system is being undermined by some who do not follow the procedures and regulations. They feel that there is an undercurrent which wants to destroy local government. The decisions that the Committee and the Boards make are not binding but are overridden by others overstepping their authority or bypassing the normal channels of decision making. The Committee have been given responsibilities but not the authority to follow through. The Town Committee members feel that the concept of local government is an excellent idea and they want to see it develop even more. They want to make a difference and feel that they can if they have cooperation. They feel that each town must have more control over their local affairs. Mr. Edison Key said during the campaign last spring that each town needed to have more autonomy to make decisions affecting that town. Mr. Alfred Gray, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Local Government, after the election said that within three months he would bring about changes in the system to provide for more local autonomy. However, now eight months later nothing is being said or done to change the situation. The members feel strongly that elected representatives in each town know best what the problems are but cannot do the peoples business when they are not given the opportunity. They gave several examples. Things happen in town contrary to the Boards minutes. For example, one restaurant never had a liquor license. When the list of liquor licenses was posted last December, the name of that restaurant was omitted at the time when the list was posted. However, later it was handwritten at the bottom of the list. The restaurant had previously been denied permission but managed to slip by. Another example was someone applying for a building permit but the site plan and conveyance differed in measurement. Two people have opened up acreage, dividing it into lots and selling them without putting in the required infrastructure. Others have had to go to a great deal of expense putting in water, electricity, phones and paving before being able to sell. They do not think this is fair. Another example was a property where the owner was denied permission to reclaim land by the prior Port Board and was notified to stop construction by a delegation of Port Board members and the Administrator. The owner constructed a building on the site of a gazebo destroyed by Hurricane Floyd even after the building inspector told him to stop construction. However, the new building is much larger than the gazebo was, is too close to the road and uses land reclaimed along the shoreline. The overhang of the roof comes to the edge of the road. The owner did not get Town Planning approval. However, the owner produced a receipt for the building permit although the plans do not have any stamps of approval nor any signatures of the Town Planning Board members. The approval was given without the knowledge of Town Planning. He did not go through the proper channels and the house does not follow the guide lines of the building code. The Committee does not know how the sewerage is disposed of. One large business does not have a current shop license. The current owners bought the business but did not apply for a new shop license in the new company name even though the new owners were told that the company would have to reapply. Non-Bahamians are building without any permits at all. But Bahamians are required to follow the law. The Committee is frustrated with the Ministry of Works. One pothole in Spring City has been a problem for about 15 years. It is still a mud hole when it rains. They have not been able to get either the Ministry of Works nor the Ministry of Health to remedy the situation. They feel that some of the Works employees are lazy. Other discrepancies are apparent. Repair work on the clinic was awarded to one contractor. However, another contractor actually received the contract and the explanation was that his contract was lower after it was re-figured. Some contracts are being given without first going to tender. Spring City has asked for land for a cemetery. They have not had any word from their request. They have to bury their dead in either Marsh Harbour or in Dundas Town. The Marsh Harbour Spring City Committee receives $171,000 to maintain their towns. The towns are growing and new areas opening up that need services. However, they are required to make do with an inadequate budget. Recently the Town Committee proposed a major clean-up on a Saturday. They were very disappointed that the business community did not support the idea and did not make an effort to improve their premises. Several businesses were asked a few months ago to consider cleaning up and putting in more landscaping. The only business owner who made a serious effort was the owner of R C Construction. There are still eyesores such as the lot next to Sea Star Rentals which has derelict vehicles, Bellevue Business Depot, Abaco Glass, Kermit Bostwicks house on Pelican Shores, the old Golden Harvest property, Alfred Grays property on Don MacKay Boulevard, the Strachan building at the airport, Lowes Pharmacy lot across from the Texaco Service Station. The Committee wants answers from central Witch Point 55 acresVicinity of Marsh Harbour. 250 ft. of nice beach. Elevations up to 40 ft. Great view of Lubbers Quarters. Good development potential $25,000 per acre.Schooner Bay Beach 1 acre tractsOne of Abacos finest beaches, located at Schooner Bay, 26 miles south of Marsh Harbour. Beach frontage with elevations of 60 ft. available. Electrical service available soon. 1 acre tracts inland with access to beach close by. $60,000Red Bay (Inland) 105 acresOnly 12 miles north of Marsh Harbour, located on a secondary road, with a Cul-de-Sac. Property has thick pine tree forest and elevations. Unique opportunity to acquire a large tract of land. $16,000 per acre.Open to joint ventures. Other Properties Available. Phone:(242) 324-1476 Fax:(242) 324-2902Anco Lands Ltd.www.ancolands.com MarshHarbour/Spring City Voice Frustrations M HarbourFrom Page 1 Please see M Harbour Page 28 The old jail on Soldier Road in Marsh Harbour has not been in use since the 1960s. The town wants to repair it and turn it into a museum. The original building had a wood shake roof which was burned later by occupants.

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Page 4 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 Super Values & Summer Savings atSAWYERS MARKETLocated in Sawyers Building off Don MacKay Blvd.Tel: (242) 367-2044/5 Fax: (242) 367-2059 FULL LINE OF GROCERIES Frozen Meats in Family Packs Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Dairy Products & Frozen Foods Famous Brand Names Wide Convenient Isles Butcher for Custom Cuts Convenient ParkingOpen 7 a.m. 9 p.m. Monday thru Saturday 8 a.m. 3 p.m. Sunday Boats equipped with:VHF Bimini Top Cooler Anchor & Lines Compass Dive Ladder Life Jackets Paddle Flares Flashlight Fire Extinguisher First Aid Kit30 Boats to Choose From All Meticulously Maintained Our Customers Get Extra Attention W eekly Rates: 26 Paramount$945 23 Albury Bros$840 22 Boston Whaler$798 20 Albury/Hydra$770 18 Privateer$560 Rates do not include gas Open 7 days 8am 5pmLocated in Hope Town & Marsh Harbour Call (242) 367-2513 Fax (242) 367-2516 www.seahorseboatrentals.com Man-O-WarBy Pat ElkinsDeath Strikes AgainMan-O-War suffered a double loss when W. Eddie Albury passed away on February 24th just ten days after the passing of his brother, Cyril. Papa Eddie was well known for his love of the Lord. He was the author of many religious tracts which he gladly offered to all from a box on the wall in front of his home. Eddie was born in Man-O-War to the late Eddie and Fleetie Albury on April 19, 1929. He received his education at Man-O-War Cay Public School and worked as a boat builder and later built homes, many of which he built on Man-O-War. Today one can see the quality of his workmanship in these homes scattered throughout the island. On April 15, 1946. Eddie accepted the Lord Jesus as his Savior. He, along with his brothers Haziel and Cyril started the assembly at the Gospel Chapel. He was dedicated to the Lords work until his passing. On April 15, 1954, Eddie married Sarah Thompson and they had six children, Daisy, Bill, Bessie, Jerry (died in infancy), Jane and Fannie. In addition to his children he is survived by daughter-in-law Sherry; sons-in-law Ray Lowe and Jeff Collins; granddaughters Natasha (whom he often called his first born), Margo, Charlotte, Raenell and Janell; brother Haziel; sister Florrie; and many other family and friends. The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. Special thanks to the doctors and staff of Abaco Family Medical Clinic.School NewsAdrianna Phillpot captured the third place trophy in her division at the Speech Contest sponsored by the Rotary Club of Abaco. The contest was held in Marsh Harbour on March 7th. Given the topic Abaco needs Adrianna chose to speak on the issue of law enforcement. The title of her speech was Abaco Needs More Law Enforcement Officers She delivered her speech in a professional manner, working only from note cards. She claimed to be a bit nervous as this was her first time participating in a competition of this sort. Now that she has this one under her belt, she has her sights on the first place trophy next time. Adrianna wishes to thank all who helped her prepare for this event, especially Nancy Albury, who gave her speech lessons. But most of all Adrianna wants to thank her mother, Melissa, who worked with her and encouraged her. Congratulations, Adrianna! The faculty and students of Man-O-War School are proud of you.Church NewsOn the evening of March 7th Brian David Hoard, pastor of the Man-O-War Church of God, was ordained a bishop. The ManO-War Church of God was filled with guests, friends and family. District Overseer Bishop Archilaus Cooper from Coopers Town addressed the congregation and Bishop Johnny Lowe from Green Turtle Cay offered the opening prayer. The music was truly awesome. It sounded as if the church could not contain the joy and the voices lifting up praises to our Lord in heaven. After going over the three qualities a bishop must have (blameless, a builder, a blessing) National Overseer Dr. John Humes read the Act of Ordination. Rev. Hoard responded with a firm I do when asked if he were willing to accept each of the charges of bishop. Dr. Humes then pronounced him a Bishop in the Church of God, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos. Special guests included Rev. Lernis Cornish and members of his congregation and Rev. Clayton McIntosh. Rev. David would like to thank all the people who attended the service and those who worked so hard to make this such a special occasion for him and his family.Man-O-War Humane SocietyBy Isobel Sherman The Man-O-War Humane Society members work very hard not only in Man-OWar but also in Abaco to provide services for the strays as well as pets owned by persons. At the recent Flea Market in Man-OWar the society raised money to help with their ongoing spay, neutering and medical program. The hard working group, Marianne Albury, Gretchen Cuffe, Mary Clement, Anne Heinemann and Janie Thompson of Elbow Cay, work tirelessly picking up strays, seeing that they are neutered and finding homes for them. Each Thursday the ladies are in Marsh Harbour at the two veterinarian offices with cats and dogs being treated. A temporary home for potcake puppies is with Mimi Rehor at Buck a Book in Marsh Harbour. Linda Giovino, who works with the stray dogs in Marsh Harbour, joins them. When two sets of female puppies were dumped near where I live, these ladies came to the rescue with food until some were adopted and some were taken to Mimi Rehor to await adoption. News of the Cays Rev. Brian David Hoard, pictured at the right, was ordained a bishop of the Church of God. The ordination took place in Man-O-War on March 7. Dr. John Humes, on the left, conferred the ordination. Mr. Eddie Albury Adrianna Phillpot Featuring Bahamian and American foods Owned and operated by Barbara Simmons & Charlene Bethel Over 20 years of experience feeding hungry people Real food at real prices All are WelcomeSun. Thur. 8 AM 3 PM Fri. & Sat. 8 AM 3 PM and 6 PM 9 PM VHF Ch 9 367-4657 367-2922 Memorial Plaza, Marsh Harbour Marsh Harbours Newest Restaurant

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 5 Cherokee SoundBy Lee PinderSpring SupperEpworth Chapel held a get-together supper for its members and followers on March 8th behind the church manse. The menu consisted of lasagna, salad, rolls and desserts. The weather cooperated and it was a beautiful day with a good turn out.A Glance Back At The PastNow that the marble coating has been applied to the Old Schoolhouse, we can imagine what it must have looked like when it was brand new over 100 years ago. The pale gold colour is very pleasing to the eye and lets us see that we have a monument to the past that we can certainly be proud of.New Justice of the PeaceOn November 22, 2002, Vashti Anita Albury was appointed as a Justice of the Peace by Her Excellency Dame Ivy Dumont, Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and on February 6, 2003, she was officially sworn in, taking the appropriate oath for such office by Alexander Williams, Senior Administrator for Central Abaco. Ms. Alburys duties will be to take affidavits and administer oaths as well as preserve the peace, act and assist in place of a Magistrate when requested. In addition to South Abaco Newsthese and other official duties, she will be required to play a roll in various social and ceremonial functions as a representative of Abaco. We are very proud of Vashti and wish her well in her added duties as the new Justice of the Peace in Cherokee and Abaco.A New Bar and Restaurant Will OpenAt the foot of Cherokee Hill, built 450 feet out over the water, the Sand Bar, which is owned and operated by Rich Curry, is about ready to open for business. According to Ellen Sawyer, the new manager, initially they will concentrate on serving luncheons as well as a variety of sandwiches, beer and wine from Thursdays through Sundays. Dinners will be by special arrangement for the time being, according to the ebb and flow of tourists. The opening and closing times have not yet been set but will also be determined by traffic as well as weather conditions as it is an open air facility. Just like several establishments in Key West, Florida, have become popular spots to watch the sunset, we predict the Sand Bar will soon become a favourite spot for anyone who is looking for breathtaking scenery, some relaxing music, tranquil surroundings and a rare bit of ambiance where a person can sit and look out over the water and see the view of Cherokees famous Long Dock, Duck Cay and as far south as Bahama Palm Shores and enjoy a good meal and a quiet drink. We wish them well.Sandy PointFerry Service Is CloserBahamas Fast Ferry is pleased that their new ferry the Sea Wind, which will provide service between Sandy Point and Nassau, will be arriving in The Bahamas sometime mid-March. It was launched in Australia in mid-February for its sea trials. The trans-oceanic trip is progressing better than expected and it will arrive at Grand Bahama by mid-March before continuing to New Providence. After arrival it will replace the Sea Link for two weeks serving Andros, Exuma and Eleuthera, allowing the Sea Link to go on dry dock. The Sea Wind cannot begin service to Sandy Point until a ramp is constructed. The Docks Committee in Nassau comprised of persons from the Port Department, the Prime Ministers office and Environmental Health has not yet met to grant permission for a ramp in Sandy Point. The company expects the Committee to meet mid-March and will hopefully approve the project at that time. It will then take two to four weeks to do the necessary construction. Their plans have been approved locally. The companys goal is to have the boat in service to Abaco by Easter. Mrs. Vashti Albury of Cherokee Sound is shown after being sworn in as a Justice of the Peace by Mr. Alexander Williams, Senior Administrator for Central Abaco, on the right. She has served in local government and is now the Deputy Chairman of the Cherokee Town Committee. Witnessing the ceremony was ASP Leland Russell, who until recently was the officer-in-clarge of Abaco. Marsh Harbour Thursdays Parish Hall at 6:30 p.m Treasure Cay Fridays Primary School at 6:30 p.m. Man-O-War Cay Saturdays Government Clinic at 11 a.m. Sandy Point Saturdays Anglican Church Hall at 5 p.m.Weight Watchers Schedule

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Page 6 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 www.coldwellbankerbahamas.com Lighthouse MarinaHope TownLighthouse Rentalsand Property SalesDeep Water Dockage Gas Diesel Ice Bait Dry StorageNew 10 ton marine forklift Full service marina Fiberglass repair Bottom painting Bright work Waxing Gift shop Largest selection of fishing tackle T-shirts Souvenirs Marine suppliesYamaha Sales and Service Factory Trained Mechanics Cottage Rentals Property SalesPh 242-366-0154 Fax 366-0171 Email: lighthouse@abacoinet.comFreeport Skiffs13 15 17 Now AvailableCall for information The Marsh Harbour Volunteer Firemen were pleased when asked to meet with Abacos new officer-in-charge, ASP Clarence Russell. The firemen were thanked for their service to the community and told they could count on the police for support. On being transferred here, ASP Russell was amazed to find a professional volunteer group operating with only token government support. He was pleasantly surprised with the equipment at their disposal. At the February 25 meeting attended by 17 of the firemen, Mr. Russell pledged his departments cooperation and help to the fire department. Shown above, left to right, Bro. Bob Cornea, Fire Chief of the Casuarina Point Volunteer Fire Department; John Hall, Fire Chief of the Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire Department; Cpl. Elroy Knowles, trained fireman on the police force; ASP Clarence Russell, Officer-in-Charge of Abaco; and Claude Sawyer, Assistant Fire Chief in Marsh Harbour.New Police Chief Meets With Firemen The few interested farmers attending this first meeting for the year were heartened to learn that Long Island Farmers are forming a branch association. Several members from Abaco will soon go to Long Island to assist this new group. This is expected to strengthen the farmers position with government. This March 4 meeting brought out seven persons to hear John Heddens plea for increased membership. He stated that the $100 annual dues is used for projects to benefit all Abaco farmers, not just members. Their most notable accomplishment was the day-long program held on November 28 last year at Mackerels Restaurant when they brought Agriculture Minister Alfred Grey to talk informally with the farmers to discuss their problems. The group is disappointed that three months after that meeting there has been no communication by the Agriculture Department to the farmers. The Farmers Association staged their initial agricultural show in conjunction with the Rotary Club last spring at the Anglican Parish Hall that was successful. Consideration is being given for a similar exhibition this year, perhaps in May in conjunction with another event. A dismal picture for banana producers was presented on the Sagatoka blight affecting banana plants worldwide which is now affecting farms on Abaco. Banana production on Abaco may be a thing of the past as early as this year as the blight expands its coverage. Mr. Hedden said worldwide production may cease in ten years or less. There is no cure at the moment and virtually no research underway. India, portions of Africa and the Caribbean will be severely affected by the loss of this crop. Bananas that survive may become a high-priced gourmet fruit. Various options for alternate crops were discussed. It was concluded that this problem does not have quick answers and is a subject for a later meeting.Farmers Association Concerned about Banana Blight BUCKLE UP!BUCKLE UP! BUCKLE UP!BUCKLE UP! BUCKLE UP!ITS THE LAW!

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 7 $65 monthly $25 weekly $10 day visit Call 367-5939 Memorial Plaza, Marsh HarbourSHAPE UP NOW ! Free weights Strength stations Cardio Stations A/C & Cable TV Showers Instructor-led classes Private fitness training by Stephanie & Nikhil Yoga AerobicsMon Fri 6 am 8 pm Saturday 7 am 1:30 pm Closed Sunday $55Three Month Special $150Methodists Hold Fellowship ServiceThe Methodist churches on Abaco held a joint Fellowship Service at St. Andrews Methodist Church in Dundas Town on March 9. The church building was packed with more than 200 people who came from St. James Methodist Church in Hope Town, Epworth Chapel in Cherokee, Aldersgate Methodist Church in Marsh Harbour. They Rev. Carla Culmer, right, minister for three Methodist churches on Abaco, is shown greeting her congregation after a fellowship service held at St. Andrews Methodist Church in Dundas Town on March 9. The church was filled to overflowing as several churches fellowshiped together along with Kiwanis Club members who were holding their annual national convention on Abaco that same weekend. Mrs. Angie Collie is in the center of the photo. Church Newswere joined by members of the Kirk of the Pines Presbyterian Church in Marsh Harbour. Additionally, members of the Kiwanis Club, who were holding their national convention on Abaco, that weekend worshiped with the Methodists. Dr. Reg Elden, Secretary of the Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church was the guest speaker. His sermon, entitled Valleys, Mountains and Rough Places, was an encouragement for the congregation to be assured that whatever their problems, God was there to smooth the way ahead, that troubles and bad times do not last but will be alleviated. Many groups took part in the service with special music and dance. The host minister was Rev. Carla Culmer, who has responsibility for three of the Methodist Churches in Cherokee, Hope Town and Dundas Town. It was a truly diverse group in every way. Dr. Elden along with Rev. Culmer presented Joel Awards at the conclusion of the service. The Methodist Conference has various projects needing funding which are not specific to any individual church. Three of the Abaco churches were awarded for their efforts in supporting these projects. St. James was commended as contributing the most of any church in the conference. It is the only church which raises funds for sending orphans in Nassau to camp each summer. They raise this money by producing a Christmas drama each year. The production requires three months of work and is an astounding production. For this the church earned a platinum award. They also received another award as did Epworth Chapel and St. Andrews Church. The adjoining fellowship hall was filled after the service as all the guests and church members were treated to a full dinner. Civic OrganizationsKiwanis Club of Greater Abaco Tuesday, 7 p.m., weekly at Touch of Class, Treasure Cay, 367-2536Pilot Club of Abaco Third Tuesday, 7 p.m., Mackerals Restaurant, Dundas Town, 367-3457Pilot Club of South Abaco Last Thursday. monthy, J.A. Pinder School, Sandy Point, 366-4001Rotary Club of Abaco Mondays, 6 p.m., weekly at Anglers Restaruant, Abaco Beach Resort

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Page 8 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 The Editor Says Our Expanding Economic Potential All About TownThe AbaconianDavid & Kathleen Ralph Editors & Publishers P O Box AB 20551 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Photo credit: Tuppy Weatherford for parrot & lighthouse on page 1 Reporters/Writers: Theresa Pinder, Anita Rolle, Isobel Sherman Columnist/Graphic Artist: Timothy Roberts Contributors: Michelle Bethell, Nancy Burnett, Pat Elkins, Erin Pagliaro, Ron Pagliaro, Lee Pinder Phone 242-367-2677 FAX 242-367-3677 Email: davralph@batelnet.bs Subscribe NOW Use order form on Page 9Abacos most complete newspaper Inquire for advertising rates(U.S. address) P.O. Box 1556 Jupiter, FL 33468-1556 7,000 copies Published twice monthlyFree at over 100 Abaco locations from Grand Cay to Moores Is. Subscription rate $20.00 Abaco$25 other Bahamas (One Year) $35.00 USA$45 Canada airmail $55.00 UK, Europe & Caribbean surface Generally Speaking . Many Factors Threaten UsDavid RalphBy S. Timothy Roberts War is an immediate threat to our economy just as it is to so many others across the world, yet it is seemingly inevitable. With or without UN support, there will be war with Iraq again. The Bahamas is in the top five in our region according to our standard of living and wage earnings. We have enjoyed prosperity for a long time. In some ways it has come easy for us, and we now enjoy more benefits due to our economic growth than many of our neighbours. In fact, according to that same standard of living, we are number one in the Caribbean. However, since the events of the infamous 9/11, we have seen a slow and steady economic decline. And now, as we sit at the brink of war, the pinch is determined to be stronger. We cannot be certain what the future holds, or how long the impending conflict may last. While this looming war threatens a depressed economic situation, depending on how the war goes, the effects may very well be short term, and the prosperity may very well return in time enough to save us from a stagnant economy. But what will save us from the other threats to our economy when the war is over? Threats both internal and external such as: 1.) The FTAA and our inclusion/exclusion. 2.) The increasingly bad reports received via exit polls. 3.) The lack of concern for the environment which attracts our tourists. 4.) Rising crime levels. 5.) Lack of better educational levels across the country, and more. What we do with these problems will have more effect on our continued prosperity and will either ensure we maintain our standard of living or drive us further back. We will ultimately decide our own fates. On exit polls taken by the Ministry of Tourism, the main complaints were poor attitudes and poor service. These are issues that we can and need to resolve. We are a service based economy and we cannot afford to let our attitudes disintegrate our position at the top in our region. We must, for our own sake and the sakes of our countrymen, fix our attitude! And the emerging FTAA treaty, which has been slated to come into effect in 2005, threatens us in a similar fashion. We must, in readiness for whatever lies ahead, roll up our sleeves and work harder at our educational levels and our level of competitiveness. Now is the time to prepare, not after the implementation of this treaty. We have many a threat to our economic success and prosperity. We have many hurdles ahead of us in maintaining this prosperity. It all hinges on how we act and react to all the global conditions now and in the future. How we react will ultimately affect not only our own pockets but the pockets of thousands of Bahamians. We each have an important roll to play in the face of these economic threats. Let us not let ourselves down. By Isobel ShermanCentral Abaco Can Have a Recreational CenterIt is true that Central Abaco could have a recreational centre if a group of concerned Abaco residents would come together and meet with Terry Goldsmith, Director of the YMCA in Freeport. I wrote about this idea last summer and since then I have tried to approach several persons in Dundas Town and Murphy Town about the idea. Mr. Goldsmith would like to extend the YMCA to Abaco and the resources from the International YMCA are available. All that is needed is a willingness of five or six Abaconians to commit themselves to this project. This endeavour would help the youth of Central Abaco. It would give them wholesome activities to pursue. What is the problem? Why cant some adults, hopefully parents, step forward and meet with Mr Goldsmith. If you dont believe that the youth will use the facility, visit the Murphy Town basketball court on any Saturday morning and see Abaco Youth in Action Basketball League. There are close to 60 children from ages 8-14 years playing team basketball every Saturday. Soon there will be a soccer youth league. Mr. Lynden Davis, Mr. Ishmael Stretch Morley, Mr. Jude Hart, Mrs. Elva Davis and Ms. Darlene Gibson are the adults responsible for the Abaco Youth in Action League. Parents of Abaco youth, please step forward and contact Lynden Davis if you are interested in bringing the Y to Abaco. Central Abaco could have a real recreational centre including an indoor basketball court if they would take the first step to meet with Mr. Goldsmith.A Horrific HappeningA story I heard about a five-year-old and a seven-year-old and two puppies curdled my blood. The two boys took the puppies that did not belong to them from a yard. They then threw the puppies and some bread at the three older dogs and watched a fight that ensued. Mind you these boys were five and seven. They then left the puppies in an old washer in the bush and closed the lid. The owner of the puppies finally found them with the aid of some older children. The result was that one puppy was dehydrated and had to be fed intravenously and given medication and the other puppy succumbed. What scares me the most about this true story is the age of the children and the violence of the act? Even though it is documented and proven, persons do not believe that there is a direct correlation between abusing animals and killing and abusing people. Most killers, especially serial killers, abused and tortured animals as children. In a conversation in a local grocery store recently I was told that if a person calls to complain about a dog to the police, they are told to poison them. There are laws on the books of The Bahamas that say it is against the law to poison or torture an animal. Maybe there is a correlation between the rise in domestic violence and violent crime in The Bahamas by what these persons who are doing the crime did as children. Did they torture animals?Carnival Spoils MeetI wrote in the last issue of The Abaconian my displeasure of having the carnival located on the track in Murphy Town, SevPlease see Sherman Page 32 The lead article in this issue is about the commissioning of a new police station in Crown Haven. It was a joyous occasion as town people came to see the Hon. Cynthia Mother Pratt visit their community to open the new office. The residents are quite proud of the new government facility they volunteered to renovate and the attention being paid them by central government. They renovated the office and the teachers residence so the police department could open a station. They wanted to assist in making their town is a secure as possible. They have reason to be proud. They have taken the initiative and brought about a major improvement to their community. We commend them on their initiative. Government, in turn, saw the expanding role Crown Haven is playing in Abacos booming economy and the increased traffic generated by the passenger ferry to McLeans Town on Grand Bahama. Crown Haven found itself catering to 20 to 40 additional persons a day due to the ferry to Grand Bahama. As the number of passengers increases, so does the traffic on the roads including an occasional questionable passenger. Traffic in the shops, restaurants and bars has increased. Government wanted a police presence to grow with the town. Several towns on Abaco have come together to develop a town project or improve their communities in various ways. Abaco has always been a strong advocate of the self-help ethic and it is refreshing to see Crown Haven and North Abaco being proactive in their areas future. One hundred twenty miles to the south, Sandy Point residents are working on a selfhelp community center outside town where the new subdivision is located. A primary goal is to have the building serve as a hurricane shelter for the residents in this lowlying waterfront town. A secondary use is to have a community center for meetings and other events. Although not finished, they expect to have it sufficiently underway to provide storm shelter this season. In four or five weeks Sandy Point will experience a surge in activity when the new ocean-going ferry begins service between there and Nassau. The initiative shown by government in North Abaco will very likely need to be duplicated in Sandy Point by expanding the police facilities there. Sandy Point and Crown Haven until recently were just the end of the road outposts. Crown Haven is now becoming a transfer depot by an increased number of travelers. There will be many new business opportunities and areas for expansion by existing businesses on both ends of the island. Local government and central government will have to review their programs and may need to upgrade or expand their services to these towns. After the ferry to Sandy Point begins in mid-April, that town can expect to match or surpass the traffic experienced by Crown Haven very quickly. Sandy Point will start off running as their new ferry will have the capacity for 200 or more passengers, vehicles including trucks and freight containers. This is over ten times the passenger capacity of the Crown Haven ferry. Granted, it might only be a homecoming event that would draw this number of people on one boat, but there is still the potential for a crowd to come from Nassaus population of 212,000 people. When the ferry landing is completed as expected in mid-April, the Sandy Point homecoming in early June will be an indicator of the potential traffic. Previous homecomings have filled the town to capacity without the benefit of a ferry. It will be interesting to see how the Nassau arrivals disperse. Many of them will begin roaming the Abaco highways. This increase in traffic will not be in only one direction. A substantial number of our people can be expected to go to Nassau this way on the three-hour ferry trip. There will be moments when Sandy Point will resemble a busy airport terminal. This new activity is bound to catch the attention of local and central government. While other areas of the Bahamas are complaining about their sluggish economies, Abacos economy continues to develop. This has been our pattern for many years. The American economy does affect us but somehow we manage to hold our own or advance. Thus far our economic progress has depended on the foreign tourist. The two ferries on the ends of Abaco may be the beginning of a domestic tourism surge. We expect to see a much greater influx of Bahamians coming and some will surely stay when they find a robust economy without the crime, traffic and other deterrents so prevalent in Nassau. These newcomers will see opportunities that we are overlooking. This causes us to realize that we must work harder at maintaining our businesses. Entrepreneurs from other parts of The Bahamas will be interested in opening new businesses here which will be in direct competition with us. We must make a concerted effort to maintain our lead and keep control of our home turf. There will be many opportunities for new businesses, especially in South Abaco. We need to watch for these opportunities ourselves, then be diligent in seizing them. We are entering a new era FTAA, the Free Trade Area of Abaco.

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 9 Why . .Receiving the Abaconian is the easiest way to keep up with all the activity on Abaco such as: # Infrastructural improvements by central government: roads, airport, docks, etc. # Phone and electric company changes # Fishing, boating & sporting activities # Immigration, taxes or duty changes # Changes to laws and regulations # Resort & hotel development # Actions by local government # Changes in airline service # New business ventures # Community eventsSubscribe TodayName Address Address City St. Postal code +Country e-mail (or Fax) (for renewal) 24 issues US$ or B$Above subscription is a gift from: $35 USA 3 rd Class $25 Bahamas surface $20 to Abaco US$45 Canada Airmail US$55 UK, Europe Surface Mail to: PO Box 1556, Jupiter, FL 33468 1556 or: PO Box AB 20551, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, BahamasSubscribe to The Abaconian If you want to renew this gift next year, please give us your address below. Nov 98 Letters to the Editor Letters to the Editor Letters to the Editor Letters to the Editor Letters to the Editor Against Drilling for OilDear Editor, It seems to me that since the Bahamas is known for its abundant sunshine that it should be making full use of this natural resource. Solar energy is clean, renewable and causes no pollution. I agree that the initial cost for the solar panels and other components of a solar electric system is expensive but over time it pays for itself. Plus, with all the trouble in the countries that supply the worlds oil, it would be a good idea if we were not so dependent on fossil fuels. On top of this, fossil fuels are not expected to last for more than 25 years. I was upset to read the news articles on the recent drilling for oil in the Bahamas. Doesnt anyone realize how harmful this is going to be? For one moment forget about the money and think about our already jeopardized environment. The Bahamas is home to 24 species of dolphins and whales. Not only will the drilling the oil destroy their habitat, but the sound waves used to check for oil will disturb the sonar they use to see. The same kind of sonar that, a few years ago, the Navy used in a training mission in the Northeastern Providence Channel which caused dolphins and whales to beach themselves, several of which could not be saved. Heres another point to think about. Our main industry is tourism, right? So why, if we rely on our crystal clean waters and pristine beaches, are we going to see if we have oil? Does anyone realize that if or when they begin to transport oil, there is a very high risk of oil spills? So what I would like to know is why is our government so willing to risk our whole economy on a short term money making scheme that cant last more than a few years? Think about it. Justine A. SandsMarinas Lack PumpOut ServiceDear Editor, We read your article on page 25 of the February 1st issue about the need to maintain the beautiful waters of the Bahamas, especially my favorite, the Abacos, clean. As a boater I had a hard time finding a pumpout service for my boat on my last visit. Marinas, especially the major ones, should have pumping stations on site and charge for that service. Last summer while in Treasure Cay, I had to be pumped out by a truck that came from Marsh Harbour. Not even in Boat Harbor Marina will you find pumpout service. Sincerely, Henry QuintanaDisney Should Clean UpDear Abaconian, Your February 15th issue was a great one for the environment! From your Environmental Awareness editorial, the Wetlands Month, the Forests, the Invasive Species, info from the Friends Update; the diversity of information was amazing. Abaco is truly blessed with individuals and groups working to protect our fragile cays. However, I would like to suggest that in addition to studying the Abaco National Park, the Disney Foundation would do Abaco a greater service by cleaning up the unpardonable mess their group left behind at the north end of Guana Cay. Might I invite members of the Bahamas National Trust, the University of Florida and Disney to visit the site before beginning any new endeavors in Abaco. Sincerely, Nan Kenyon Editors Note: The cruise boat that went into North Guana Cay was the red-hulled Majestic operated by Premier Cruise Lines which was owned by the Dial Corporation. It was named as The Official Cruise Line of Disney and it did leave from Port Canaveral which is close to Orlando. But there was no other connection with Disney. Premier Cruise Lines or the owner of the property would be responsible for leaving the mess, not Disney Cruise Lines. A broad range of subject and island themes will highlight this years annual oneman exhibit in Nassau by Green Turtle Cay artist Alton Lowe. In this 34th consecutive show, Mr. Lowes mastery of colour and detail captures not only the essence of island life for which he has become renowned, but also its diversity. South Abacos rugged coastline provides the backdrop for a new painting of the historic lighthouse at Hole-in-the-Wall. The same rocky seaside with its crystal clear, turquoise waters is the setting for a painting of Bahamian children gathering whelks. Other paintings include images of a moonlight night on Guana Cay, spectacular sunrises and sunsets, and, of course, a number of colourful flower paintings including medicinal plants, hibiscus and several exotic orchids. Mr. Lowes interest in his home island of Green Turtle Cay prompted him to found the Albert Lowe Museum and the Sculpture Garden at New Plymouth. Other ongoing cultural projects over the years have included lectures, concerts and theatrical performances at his Garden Theatre adjacent to his home. The Bahamas government has featured more than 50 of his paintings on Bahamian postage stamps. He annually stages a May and December Open House at his gallery on Green Turtle. He also opens the gallery at other times by appointment. The show in Nassau will be open to the public from March 22 to March 26.Alton Lowe Plans a One-Man Art ShowA 123-foot 367 passenger ferry will begin daily service in May between the Port of Palm Beach and Freeport. The round trip fare for the three-hour trip is expected to be between $100 and $140. Miami-based Party Cruise Line is the owner and will offer food, gambling and a duty free shop on board. This ferry service will allow the adventurous traveler to reach Abaco by sea and land without resorting to aircraft. A bus connects Freeport to McLeans Town at the eastern end of Grand Bahama. Pinders Ferry is based there and connects twice daily to Crown Haven on the north tip of Abaco with a 45-minute ferry ride. A bus is expected to resume service be-New U.S. Ferry Will Serve Freeporttween Crown Haven and Marsh Harbour but was not operating at the end of February 2003. Rental cars are available in Crown Haven. If a rental car is needed, it would be wise to call ahead to ensure one is available. It is a 60-mile drive to Marsh Harbour on a good road. A cruise boat presently serves Freeport from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. Many Abaco persons use this route for their Florida trips. In May West Palm Beach will become a similar option. Support Your Local Library

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Page 10 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 China, Crystal, J ew elery, Watches & Resort WearFor every budgetIn Marsh Harbour beside the Boat Harbour entrance Monday Saturday 9 am 5:30 pm call 367-3191LenoLeno LenoLeno Leno xx xx x ChinaChina ChinaChina China PerPer PerPer Per fumefume fumefume fume OmegaOmega OmegaOmega Omega WW WW W aa aa a tchestches tchestches tches LladrLladr LladrLladr Lladr oo oo o FigurFigur FigurFigur Figur inesines inesines ines JeJe JeJe Je ww ww w ellrellr ellrellr ellr yy yy y Wines, Spirits & Beers Queen Elizabeth Dr., Marsh Harbour Treasure Cay Shopping Centre, Treasure Cay Open Monday Saturday 9 am 6 pmPh: 367-2180 Fax: 367-5241 A premium Belgium lager beerwinterwine Clearance SaleSelected items now33% to 45% offThru March Cash & Credit Card Only Major credit cards acceptedA premium lite beerHousing Office RelocatesBy Portia Jonsson The office of the Department of Housing and the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation has relocated to the B and L Plaza on Don MacKay Boulevard in Marsh Harbour. The Housing Department deals with the sale of land in the Central Pines Subdivision in Dundas Town, Sands Cove in Sandy Point and housing land in Coopers Town, Fox Town, Crown Haven and Crossing Rocks. The Mortgage Corporation deals with the financing of these properties. The Corporation also offers private financing. Loans financed up to $94,500 attract an eight percent interest rate while anything over $94,500 but under $127,000 attract a nine percent interest rate. The average property in Central Pines sells for $15,000 while Sands Cove averages $12,000 per property. The response to property for sale in Central Pines has been good so far. Sands Cove should be ready in another month for building but many people have already purchased lots there. Effective March 3 Central Pines Sales Office will be collecting payments for all Department of Housing lots on Abaco. The office hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Monday through Friday.New Fuel Dock OpensBy Portia Jonsson Construction of a new Texaco fuel dock continues at the Marsh Harbour Boat Yard. This project began at the beginning of the year and completion is expected by the end of March. The first test run dispensing fuel will take place the first week in March. Larger boats will be able to fuel up on any tide as the dock carries seven feet of water at low tide. Marsh Harbour Boat Yard offers a wide range of services for boaters including short and long term storage, bottom cleaning and painting and mechanical repairs. There is also a well stocked marine store on the premises.Variety Store OpensBy Portia Jonsson Located on Front Street in Dundas Town in a newly built building is A and L Variety Store which opened for business on February 10th. The store, which is owned and managed by Ann Wilmore, carries an assortment of items including handbags, hosiery, beauty supplies and clothing for men, ladies and children. There are also bread baskets items, household appliances and footwear for the entire family. Store hours are 7:30 a.m. 8 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Central Abaco News Please see Central Page 11 When Abaco Glass moved its framing shop into the old Western Auto building last November, it allowed the framing center to create an art gallery. This spacious showroom displays artwork from resident and non-resident artists including Colette Bootle, Chan Pratt, Don Russell, Lou Lihou, Anne Ray, Malcolm Rae, Doreen Barth and William Johnston. Also showcased are prints by Eddie Minnis and Haitian art. Original paintings range from $200 to $2,500. Ms. Tuppy Weatherford manages the gallery and framing. Abaco Glass has been in business for nine years. Framing services have been available for the past three years. The company employs six persons and is owned by Mr. Johnny Pinder and Mr. Kevin Pinder. The Abaco Branch of the Bahamas Cancer Society held a book sale at Port of Call Marina in Marsh Harbour on March 1. The sale raised $700 and was deemed a great success.

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 11Corner Value Liquid Propane Gas LPG Tanks refilled LPG Appliances by Maytag Appliances Refrigerators Household Goods Kitchenware Clothing, Shoes Stationery Hallmark CardsQueen Elizabeth Drive One Block East of the Traffic Light P O Box AB20490, Marsh harbourPhone 367-2250 New Freight Dock Boasts Native LandscapingBy Erin Pagliaro of Abaco Outback Following a local workshop on invasive species by the BEST Commission, the Department of Works made hasty changes to the freight dock landscaping plan to replace invasive plants with native ones. The original landscape contract called for 95 invasive Scaveola (Hawaiian Seagrape) to be planted on the new freight dock grounds. Scaveola has been identified as one of the most threatening invasive species in Abaco along with the casuarina and the raccoon. It rapidly replaces native vegetation along shorelines, spreading at an alarming rate. Cocoplum is replacing all the Scaveola, accented with native sea grape and buttonMore Central Abaco News CentralFrom Page 10 wood. These native plants are hardy, saltresistant species adapted to our island landscape and are readily available at our local nurseries. For information on how you can plant native, call Friends of the Environment at 367-2721Sign Shop OpensBy Portia Jonsson Three Ds Custom Signs located on Don MacKay Boulevard in Marsh Harbour opened for business on March 3. The business specializes in signage, visual advertising, business cards, digital prints, illuminated signs, neon signs and sandblasted and routed signs. Mr. Desmond Bootle, owner and manager, will donate free signs to nonprofit organizations. Churches will receive a 20 percent discount and schools a 10 percent discount. Recently early on a Saturday morning a car driven by Marvin Albury crashed into a house in Murphy Town. Just minutes before the incident occurred, the tenants grandson was in the kitchen getting a glass of water. It is reported that the driver did not remain at the scene of the crash but left shortly after in another vehicle. Florence and Jenny Stuart, owners of the house, had the car removed later in the day by a wrecker. A coconut tree, which stood in the front yard, was also removed from the house. AA MeetingsThe AA (Alcoholics Anomyous) group of Marsh Harbour meets Mondays and Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Marsh Harbour Community Library. The AA group in Hope Town meets Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at the library.The traffic pattern at the corner of Forest Drive and Crockett Drive is being changed. Bahama Hot Mix is in the process of making a traffic round-about to ease the congestion at that corner. The round-about will eventually have three planters to guide drivers. The corner has been the scene of several serious accidents, one of which caused the death of three persons. At this stage some drivers are still attempting to drive the way they used to through the intersection. Mr. Bootle has had several years of experience in Florida in this profession. Business hours are 9 a.m. 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Their telephone is 367SIGN (367-7446).Mini ConventionBy Isobel Sherman The Pilot Clubs of Abaco hosted a mini convention between February 28 to March 2 at Abaco Beach Resort. Mrs. Eileen Morley, District Governor for the Pilot Clubs, was in attendance as well as Pilot Club members from clubs of Nassau and Freeport. A banquet was held at Below Decks on March 1 and the club members worshiped at St. James Methodist Church in Hope Town on Sunday. Abaco has two Pilot Clubs, the Central Abaco Club founded in 1998 and the South Abaco Cub formed in 2002.Anchor Clubs Hold RetreatBy Isobel Sherman The mid-term break the first weekend of Marsh saw the Anchor Clubs of Abaco traveling to Camp Abaco for a weekend of fun. There are two Anchor Clubs in Abaco, one at Abaco Central High School and the other encompasses students from Forest heights Academy and St. Frances de Sales School.School FairSt. Francis de Sales School Fair will be held on the school grounds on March 22 beginning 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Fun and games. Raffle tickets will be on sale with a grand prize of $5,000 to be redeemed at Travel Spot.

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Page 12 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 Serving DailyBreakfast, Lunch & Dinnerin the Abaco Beach ResortTel: 367-2158 for Dinner ReservationsAbaco Beach Resort&Boat Harbour MarinaIts Finally BackSunday Brunch ExtravaganzaServing Prime Ribs & All Your FavoritesUnlimited Mimosas & Free SodaJ oin us every Sunday 11 AM 3 PM oin us every Sunday 11 AM 3 PM oin us every Sunday 11 AM 3 PM oin us every Sunday 11 AM 3 PM oin us every Sunday 11 AM 3 PM$25 per person Reservations recommended REVERSE OSMOSISSEA WATER DESALINATORS MAKE DRINKING WATER FROM SEAWATER Advanced Water Engineering, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of water treatment equipment including our REVERSE OSMOSIS. We are re-introducing our equipment to the Bahamas. Residential and small boat sizes from 100 to 20,000 gallons per day. Pricing starts at $2,300.00 We also stock: pumps membranes filters test kits cistern liners poly tanks cat pumps cat parts fittingsADVANCED WATER ENGINEERING, INCIndian Harbour Beach, FL 32937 Tel: (321) 777-4909 Fax: (321) 773-8338e-mail: info@advancedwater.com DISTRIBUTORS WANTED CALL OR E-MAIL FOR PRICES C & A Variety Store & Soft Drinks Exclusive Distributor of NOW SELLING Gatorade, V8 Splash, Bluebird Juices, Water, Bottled, Malts and Canned SodasTel: 367-3131 Fax: 367-4190 P.O. Box AB-20948 Marsh Harbour, Abacoin the new green building opposite Lowes Pharmacy & Dr. BoyceWEVE MOVED! Now Located www.coldwellbankerbahamas.comRotary Holds Speech CompetitionBy Portia Jonsson The Rotary Club of Abaco held its Annual Speech Competition at the Learning Resource Center in Marsh Harbour on March 10th. Nineteen students from grades 5-12 within the Abaco School District participated in this competition. Schools represented were Long Bay School, Man-OWar All Age School, S.C. Bootle High, St. Francis de Sales and Forest Heights Academy. The competition was divided into three categories: Primary, Junior and Senior. Topics were: Abaco Needs Reasons for the Rise in Criminal Activity and Can War Ever Be Justified? Students were confident and came prepared and armed with information. They presented themselves well and delivered their speeches competently. Winners in the primary category were 1st Place Junata Anee of Long Bay School, 2nd Place Donald Pubien of Long Bay School and 3rd Place Adrianna Phillpot of Man-O-War School. Winners in the secondary category were: 1st place Chantell McIntosh of S.C. Bootle High, 2nd Place Samantha Baillou of S.C. Bootle High and 3rd Place Raquell Berry of Long Bay School. Winners in the senior category were: 1st Place Rebecca Risberg of Forest Heights School News Please see School Page 13 The Hon. Cynthia Mother Pratt, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, visited the Central Abaco Primary School at a special assembly celebrating Bahamian History Month. The students made displays of plants, food and household items which were common at a earlier time in Bahamian history. Mrs. Pratt is shown here, center, examining the displays. She was accompanied by Mr. Hezekiah Dean, Superintendent of Abaco Schools, right center and Ms. Blanche Deveaux, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, who accompanied Mrs. Pratt. Central Abaco Primary is making Bahamian history come alive for the students. The students made displays, models and demonstrations to vividly show the life style of their great grandparents. A young student demonstrates the method of ironing in the Family Islands the beginning of the last century. In the back ground is a model of a house typical of the Family Islands in those days. Mrs. Pratt commented that it looked just like her grandmothers house. The students responded very positively to her as she encouraged them to become proud Bahamians.

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 13 Daily Service Marsh Harbour Treasure Cay Freeport Daytona Beach Melbourne Orlando Intl. Florida KeysRegardless of the destination, Please Call Us Today to quote Your Next Trip at:1-242-367-4852 or 1-242-365-8852(Marsh Harbour Terminal) (Treasure Cay Terminal)1-800-852-0275 (U.S. Only) (386) 423-1773 Fax (386) 423-1774 E-mail: flyvintage@aol.com www.vpj.com CHECK OUR WEBSITE BEFORE YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP Restaurant & Bar Bahamian & American Food Breakfast Traditional American & Bahamian foodLunch Daily Bahamian Specials Lunch specials served in ten minutes or lessDinner Enjoy a relaxing water front meal Located at the Conch Inn Resort & Marina Tel: (242) 367-4444Close convenient location Great food at low prices Just like it used to be! New ManagementBreakfast 7:30 am to 11 am Lunch 11:30 am to 3 pm Dinner 6 pm to 10 pm Ph: (242) 367-3498 or VHF Ch. 16 Academy, 2nd Place Ashela Archer of St. Francis de Sales and 3rd Place Clarence Albury of S.C. Bootle High. Winners in the senior category will have the opportunity to travel to Nassau and compete in the Texaco Speech Competition scheduled for April 19th. Certificates were awarded to all the participants and the winners received trophies. A floating trophy was awarded to the best speaker of the competition. Junata Anee of Long Bay School was the winner of this title. The trophy will remain at Long Bay School for one year. Organizers of the competition were Mr. Gentry Morris and Ms. Felamease Sawyer. Judges were Rotarians Jackie Estevez, Sandra Evans, Barry Whiting and Bill Schweitzer. Cathy Schweitzer was the time keeper More School News Please see School Page 14 SchoolFrom Page 12Central Abaco PrimaryCentral Abaco Primary School held a special program on March 7 as part of their celebration of Bahamian History Month. The theme of their program was Celebrate Nationhood: The First Generation of Being Bahamian. Their guest speaker was the Hon. Cynthia Mother Pratt, Deputy Prime Minster and Minister of National Security. Mrs. Pratt spoke to the children about what it meant to be Bahamian and some of the characteristics they should have to show their Bahamian culture. She stressed courtesy, sharing, going to church and showing respect for one another. She mentioned five outstanding Bahamians and told the children their contributions to this country. After her talk the Bahamas Royal Police Band performed for the students in the parking lot. The children were captivated as the band marched and did their maneuvers.Motivational Seminar Was HeldOn February 27 Abaco Central High School held an Educators Seminar at New Vision Ministries building. Other schools invited were S.C. Bootle High School, St Frances de Sales School and Central Abaco Primary School. The presenter was Mr Donald M. McCartney, who is with the Bahamas Public Service. His topic was change, goal setting and attitudes are factors when coping in the workplace. A group of students from the Bimini All Age School visited Abaco along with their teacher, Ms. Jeanne-Pierre Richie, from February 13th17th. This was the first trip to Abaco for all eight students. Many expressed their immediate love of the island. They felt that it was a nice mixture of a Family Island and a city. While on Abaco they were able to climb the Hope Town lighthouse, travel to Hole-in-the-Wall, discover wildlife at Different of Abaco, explore Marsh Harbour, view the wild horses of Abaco and sun on the beach at Treasure Cay. The students especially enjoyed visiting Abaco National Park and comparing the miles and miles of pine trees to their own native and much SMALLER island of Bimini. They wish to thank everyone who made their visit so enjoyable. Story and photo by James Richard of S.C. Bootle High School.

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Page 14 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003TT TT T el: (242) 365-5028 el: (242) 365-5028 el: (242) 365-5028 el: (242) 365-5028 el: (242) 365-5028 F F F F F ax: (242) 365-5083 ax: (242) 365-5083 ax: (242) 365-5083 ax: (242) 365-5083 ax: (242) 365-5083 e-mail: harbourviewhaven@abacoinet.com www.guanacayvillas .com Rental CottagesAll units centrally air-conditioned Satellite TV, Radio / CD / Tape player Two bedrooms, queen beds, 1 bath, full kitchen, living room Dining area seats 6, Bahama room with queen futon One bedroom, one bath apartment overlooking the harbour Outside BBQ grill Enjoy your own private gazebo and garden Harbour View HavenLocated on Beautiful Great Guana Cay, Abaco, Bahamas Store Hours: 9am to 5pm Ph: (242) 365-5006 365-5002 365-5028 (office) 365-5083 (fax) 3 Villas, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished kitchen 1 bedroom queen, 1 bedroom 2 singles Sitting area queen futon Dining area seats 6 All units fully furnished, Central A/C Satellite TV, Radio/CD/Tape player Outside BBQ with your own private balcony Overlooking the harbour PoolTel: (242) 365-5028/5006/5002 Fax: (242) 365-5083e-mail: seashorevillas@abacoinet.com www. guanacayvillas.comLocated on Beautiful Great Guana Cay, Abaco, BahamasSea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas Sea Shore Villas PINE WOODSPINE WOODS PINE WOODSPINE WOODS PINE WOODS NURSERNURSER NURSERNURSER NURSER YY YY Y Plants Gift Items Silk Flowers Baskets Pet Supplies Fish Garden Tools Fertilizers Soils MulchMON FRI 9 5 SAT 9 2 Ph 242-367-2674 Fax 242-367-4755 Marsh HarbourIn an inspiring presentation lasting approximately three hours Mr. McCartney used slides, music and inspirational quotes to bring his message. He began by telling teachers that they are the architects of this nation. Teaching is a calling and if you have not been called to teach get out of the profession. Self-made people are a myth. Mr McCartney stated that no one is truly selfmade because all of us have had someone who was there at some time to offer a word of encouragement by a kind word or gesture along the way. He deals in reality and it is best to leave yesterday to Gods mercy, the future to His providence and determine what today will bring. Life is the gap or the hyphen between the year we were born and the year of our death and the question is not how long we will live but how we live and if we live life to the fullest. He said as a nation we have lost humanity and that is as educators we have lost the fact that all of the children in a school are our children, not just the children sitting front of them in a class. He urged teachers to take back their classrooms and to lead by example. Teachers must be shining examples in every aspect of their lives to their students and the community at large. When a person enters the teaching profession, they no longer belong to themselves but they belong to the community. Every aspect of what they do should be an example to the community and the students. You cannot direct childrens lives unless you know who you are. Mr McCartney said we must identify what is important in our life and what we value as well as the principles we wish to live by. We must have a thankful and grateful attitude and recognize the simple blessings we have each day. We are in charge of our attitude and life is 10 percent of what happens to us and 90 percent of how we react to it. We need to be a more compassionate and caring people for the good of our country and the young people of our country. As leaders in education we must be optimistic and understand the culture of the community and island where we teach. Throughout his whole presentation one could feel Mr. McCartneys deep belief in More School NewsMr. Don Cornish, Manager of the Ministry of Tourism office on Abaco, visited the 4th grade at St. Francis de Sales School on February 18 where he discussed the relationsip between tourism and our way of life and the importance tourists play on our island. He emphasized how important it is that they are treated well. Mrs. Curry is their teacher. SchoolFrom Page 13 SchoolFrom Page 15 Mr. Donald McCartney and Principal Benjamin Stubbs

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 15 Collins Ave., Marsh Harbour, Abaco Tel: (242) 367-2601/2 Fax: (242) 367-2731 Choice Meats Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Dairy Products & Frozen Foods Famous Brand Names Nabisco Murrays Duracell Bluebird Wise Quaker Del Monte Gatorade DISTRIBUTORS IN ABACO FOR Open 8 a.m. 6 p.m. Monday thru Saturday COMPLETE GROCERY LINE SOLOMONS SOLOMONS ABACO LTD A DIVISION OF ABACO MARKETS LTD. Shop Safe! Shop SmartShop Solomons!God. He spoke with a passion that was inspiring as well as thought provoking. He ended his presentation by telling us to be grateful and to more closely align our values with our principles so that we can be more effective in our work and always to show gratitude in all things.Agape Christian SchoolSchool Publishes CookbookBy Portia Jonsson A combination of over 100 recipes from the student body and church family of Agape Christian School are featured in the cookbook Feeding the Flock. The book is dedicated to Mary Cartwright, who was a very strong supporter of Agape School. This cookbook has been in the works for about a year. One can expect to find some of the all time Bahamian favorites like conch fritters, conch chowder, Johnny cake, peas and rice, stuffed lobster and many, many more. The cookbook sells for $15 and is available through the school and a few local businesses. This is the second cookbook the school has published.Students Enter Essay CompetitionBy Portia Jonsson Three students of Agape Christian School have submitted essays in the Essay Competition sponsored by the Bahamas Development Bank. They are 11th grader Caralee Bethel and 10th graders Dawson Malone and Felicity Simms. The topic for the competition was The Bahamas Development Bank: A Catalyst of Economic Empowerment Winning prizes include a $1,500 scholarship 1st Place, $750 scholarship 2nd Place and $375 scholarship 3rd Place. Good luck to all the students!Central Abaco HighBy Isobel ShermanTrack Team Denied AcceptanceThe Junior Track and Field Team of Abaco Central High School was denied participation at the Grand Bahama Track and Field Championship. In a 3-4 vote the coaches of the Grand Bahama Secondary Schools Sports Association denied the participation of the Abaco Central High School team. The reason given to Mrs. Elva Davis, coach of the Abaco Central team, was that Abaco Central would take away points. In his nightly sports cast on ZNS TV Freeport on February 25 Ricardo Lightbourne reported on the vote and said that we are supposed to be One Bahamas. He added that Abaco has no way for any students to qualify for the Nationals. Mr. Benjamin Stubbs, Principal of Abaco Central, is seeking permission to have athletes travel to compete in the National Track and Field Meet without qualifying. Citing the fact that inter house sports and inter school sports could not be held, Mr. Stubbs feels that permission will be granted.. The tragedy in this whole affair is that Abaco Central High School was not able to have an Inter House Track and Field Meet this year due to the carnival and had to compete in the Inter School Meet without benefit of practice. Some day we have to pay more than lip service to the youth of Abaco.Dolphin Hope Is AdoptedThe Grade 10 Marine Biology class at Abaco Central has adopted the dolphin Hope. On February 25 Diane Claridge of the Bahamas Mammal Marine Survey did a slide presentation on dolphins and whales More School News SchoolFrom Page 14 SchoolFrom Page 35 CHEROKEE AIRCharter Service Flights to all points in the Bahamas and FloridaP.O. Box AB-20485 Marsh Harbour Abaco Bahamas 242-367-2089 242-367-2613 242-367-2530Call us for ratesThe principal of St. Francis de Sales School in Marsh Harbour, Mrs. Josephine GiraudKumar invited Cpl. Elroy Knowles to the school on February 26 to discuss fire safety and general safety issues with teachers and administration. Some of his presentation related to the school specifically with other items teachers can use to discuss home safety issues with the students. Cpl. Knowles is a trained firefighter with the Royal Bahamas Police Force who is stationed on Abaco. Proceeds to benefit the Bahamas Marine Mammal Survey (BMMS) LIVE Music Featuring NassausThe Graham Holden Deal& AbacosStone McEwanContinuous live music starts at 7 p.m.Friday night at SapodillysTICKETS: $35 includes Bahamian buffet, 1 FREE drink or $15 Cover Charge includes 1 FREE drink Fun RunSandy Point5K & 2.5K Whale Walk/RunSaturday 9:30 Noon$10/Adult & $5/Child (12 & under)GREAT PRIZES!Music, Games & Food til 5:00 p.m.Food Proceeds benefit Sandy Point PTA BMMS Research Centre Open HouseSaturday, 2-4 p.m. Sandy PointFree Admission Educational Activities All About Whales Dolphin Day Musical JAMMiloDavid GrahamBrian RussellBill PKStone McEwanSean McNamaraTim DealSteve Holden ...and YOU?! Saturday night at Sapodillys 8 p.m.TICKETS: $35 includes Bahamian buffet, 1 FREE drink or $15 Cover Charge includes 1 FREE drink All tickets include roundtrip Hope Town TransportWild Dolphin Tourwith BMMS researchersSunday 12:30 5 p.m.Departs Hope Town & Marsh HarbourADVANCED TICKET: $25/ Adult & $10/Child(12 & under)TRIP DAY : $35/Adult & $15/ChildConch Salad and Sodas/Beer available

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Page 16 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 Abaco AirCharter Service Between Abaco & The Entire Bahamas & FloridaWith Daily Scheduled Service to Nassau Scheduled Services To Freeport, Moores Island & North EleutheraPh: (242) 367-2266, Fax: (242) 367-3256, VHF 74 Come Fly Our Friendly Skies!An underage girl was found having intercourse at the Murphy Town park on February 16. John Pinder of Hope Town was arrested in Guana Cay on February 16 for possession of a dangerous drug. He pleaded guilty. A Dundas Town minor was cut up an altercation with another man on February 17 A man from Black Wood was arrested for molesting his under-aged stepdaughter on February 21Bahamas Increases SecurityThe Bahamas is taking precautions against terrorism along with the rest of the World. The Customs Department in Nassau will put into service next week a $290,000 X-ray trailer capable of detecting weapons, explosives and drugs in luggage. Mr. John A. Rolle, Comptroller of Customs, says the machine will be used initially at the Nassau International Airport but can be moved to any port of entry. It should have been delivered since April, 2002, but delivery was delayed because of the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, and a resulting increased demand for such equipment. Eight Customs officers began training to use the trailer on Friday. When the equipment is in operation, baggage is rolled into a tunnel on one side, viewed on a computer monitor and then exits on the opposite side.Police Report The government is committed to slow the flow of illegal immigrants to this country. During the month of January the Department of Immigration, the Royal Bahamas Police and the Defence Force along with the U.S. Coast Guard have apprehended John Earl Stephens of Hope Town pleaded guilty to the charge of possessing dangerous drugs on February 21. He was fined $1000. A woman from Murphy Town reported that she was attacked by two men from Murphy Town and Marsh Harbour. many individuals on New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Bimini, Exuma and Andros. They also interdicted seven Haitian boats in Bahamian water. They repatriated 250 illegal immigrants to Haiti, Cuba, Jamaica, Canada, Honduras, the United States and India and are continuing the repatriation exercise in February. The cost of this for January was $42,666. But allowing the immigrants to remain in this country would be far more costly. The Ministry of Labour and Immigration is appealing to the public to call their hot line, 242-322-3884, to inform them of any illegal immigrants entering the country, hiding out, or congregating to they can be apprehended, processed and repatriated.Illegal Immigration Must Stop Advertise in The Abaconian Price: $1,500,000 Price: $935,000 Great island home just steps away from the beach. Open floor plan, 3B/2B, great room with wet bar. Master suite upstairs offers balcony with views of the Atlantic Ocean.Price: $480,000LUBBERS QUARTERS CAY Sea to sea property over 4 lush acres, beautiful beach on western side, 100 foot dock on eastern side, main house, and cottage, lots of decking, a rare find. Price:$1,290,00ARIEL VIEW Lovely 3bd/2bth home located in Dorros Cove. Gorgeous views of the Atlantic w/beach access. 2 minutes to Tahiti Beach. Central a/c, furnished, landscaped. Price: $715,000LITTLE ORCHARD Island Style home, 3bd/2bth located on 2 lots 90X158ft. each, central a/c, fully furnished, wrap around decks (upstairs) Downstairs has a 1bd/1bth furnished apt. w/central a/c (rental income $800 per month). Fully enclosed workshop, 30kw generator, 3 telephione lines, cable tv. Lots are fully landscaped with mature fruit trees and citrus. A must see! Price$588.00SOLITUDE Secluded north end Elbow Cay property offers incredible views of the Atlantic and easy access to bay and ocean beaches. Split level, 3B/3B, open kitchen combines with great room. Large downstairs office can convert to fourth bedroom. Large open decks for sunning, alfresco dining. Lush landscaped grounds. Price:$635,000DORROS COVE Lage hillside lot 110 x 200 with great views of the Atlantic, cleared and ready to build your perfect island home. Underground electric & telephone, great buy. Price:$151,500MARNIES CREEK Private marina community at the southern end of Elbow Cay offering acre lots with views of the Atlantic Ocean, Sea of Abaco, or both. Each lot comes with private dock slip at the marina, homesites staggered for optimal views. Starting at: $230,000LARGE OCEAN FRONT LOT 110 x 259. Georgeous views! Private dock slip in Marnies Marina. Undergrund utilities (electic & phone) Price: $315,000NORTH END, ELBOW CAY Lush interior lot with great ocean views, and access to incredible swimming/snorkeling beach. Price: $135,000EAST VIEW Located on Lubbers Quarters Cay. Development faces the Sea of Abaco across from Tilloo Cut and Tahiti Beach. Beautiful sunrises. Each homesite comes with a dock slip at the private marina. Great investment opportunity. Starting at: $89,000UNDERUNDER UNDERUNDER UNDER CONTRACT CONTRACT CONTRACT CONTRACT CONTRACT Price: $1,755,000Dramatic Atlantic Ocean front property with views south through the chain of islands just steps away from Tahiti Beach.Main house features open kitchen, 2B/2B suite, loft /study/office area. Gazebo deck leads to twin master suites. Decks w/bbq area, pool, lush landscaping. Private dock slip. Fully furnished, includes golf cart and jeep. Price: $1,550,000Premier designer home on beautiful sandy beach. Features 4B/3B, large open kitchen on second floor, great decks, balcony, swimming pool.Custom Timber Peg ocean front home, views of Tilloo Cay and beyond. 3B/3B, spacious kitchen open to great room, large wrap around deck with pool, and private dock slip at Tahiti Beach. Price: $1,500,000 Custom home in private marina community facing the Sea of Abaco. Turnkey 4B/4B, open kitchen, dining area and great room. Includes 2 dock slips, one can accommodate up to a 60 yacht.Immaculate, turnkey, oceanfront home, 3 bedroom, 3 bath, heated pool overlooking Atlantic, large deck, screened porch and generator.UNDERUNDER UNDERUNDER UNDER CONTRACT CONTRACT CONTRACT CONTRACT CONTRACT VILLA JUNKANOO AZURE BLUE FANTASY ATLANTIC HORIZONS PINEAPPLE BEACH HOUSE POINT OF VIEW

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 17 STANDARD HARDWAREMarsh Harbour 242-367-2660, 2881, 2820 Fax 242-367-2645 Contractors Ask about our special price scheduleA full stock of electrical hardware for contractors and homeowners From inside to outside From roof to floor There's plenty more Inside our store Special homeowner pricing on major projects www.coldwellbankerbahamas.com Brand PartsHardware & Fastenersfor Homeowners and ContractorsPlumbing Supplies Water HeatersYour largest choice of economical Gas AppliancesAt the traffic light in Marsh Harbour Paints 100% USABLE SPACE HEAVY-DUTY RED-IRON FRAME FIRE-RESISTANT 20-YEAR MILL-BACKED WARRANTY MULTIPLE PANELS AND COLORS EASY BUILT-IT-YOURSELF CONSTRUCTION MANUFACTURER SAVINGS MAINTENANCE FREE MULTIPLE CONFIGURATIONS CUSTOMIZED ACCENTS HEAVY SNOW AND WIND LOADS FAST DELIVERY FROM MANUFACTURING FACILITIES NATIONWIDE QUICK EASY DELIVERYBest Buy on Steel Buildings Best Buy on Steel BuildingsSpeed. Quality. Value.A B C1-561-955-8800A=100X180X16 B=55X90X14 C=40X60X14 All buildings are Red Iron, bolt-up kits in 26 gauge galv. that include engineered drawings and come in all sizes. Local building codes may cause prices to vary. Pricing FOB Factory.By Isobel Sherman The Ministry of Tourism and co-sponsor Rosie and Son Liquor Company held their Annual Receptions for winter residentsTourism Hosts Winter Residentsthe last week in February. On February 25 a reception was held in Treasure Cay and North Abaco at the Tipsy Seagull. Cocktails were provided by Rosie and Sons and hors doeuvres by Treasure Cay Beach Hotel. Chris The Burner Russell provided music. On February 27 a reception for winter residents of South Abaco and Marsh Harbour was held at the poolside deck at Mangoes Marina. The hors doeuvres were provided by Chef Nick of Mangoes and the cocktails were provided by Rosie and Sons. Estin Music Man Sawyer provided the music. The turnout at both receptions was great. Special guest at both of the receptions was Ms. Agatha Marcelle, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism. Accompanying her was Ms. Antoinette Davis, Tourisms Regional Manager for the Northern Bahamas. The Hon. Agatha Marcelle, MP and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, spoke briefly to the winter residents at Mangoes Marina on February 27. The guests enjoyed a cocktail party with the drinks supplied by Rosie and Son Liquors. That same week Tourism held a similar party at the Tipsy Seagull Bar at Treasure Cay. Mrs. Marcelle spoke to the guests then also.

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Page 18 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 Carnival Entertains Crowds

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 19

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Page 20 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 MAN-O-WAR HARDWARE Interior, Exterior & MarinePLYWOOD #1 LUMBERPlain & Pressure Treated Pine, Fir, Cypress Teak & MahoganyFor Quotes or Information Call Walter Sweeting or Arthur Elden Man-O-War Cay, Abaco, Bahamas Phone 242-365-6011 Fax 365-6039 We monitor VHF Ch 69 Deliveries Arranged from Green Turtle Cay to Little HarbourAn Extensive Selection ofNon-CorrosiveHardwareBolts, Nails & Screws Hinges & Barrel Bolts Stainless SteelHurricane ClipsBrass, Stainless & MonelCouncil Central Abaco Dist. Feb. 27, 03 The meeting opened with Mr. Bobby Jones of the Independence Celebration Committee informing Council members on plans for The Bahamas 30th anniversary Independence celebrations culminating July 10. A variety of events is scheduled in different towns, and he asked the Councillors from Marsh Harbour, Dundas Town and Murphy Town to submit their schedule of activities and their estimated budgets. He asked that towns leave the evening of July 9 open as an island-wide flag raising ceremony will be held at the Central Abaco Primary School that night. The flag will be raised at midnight as it was 30 years ago. An ecumenical service and perhaps a cultural show will precede the midnight ceremony. An extensive discussion centered around the filthy and unsanitary restrooms at the Central Abaco Primary School. Apparently there is a problem with the janitorial staffs willingness to keep these facilities clean. Additional information will be sought from the schools management. Eight additional taxi plates were released by the previous Council on information that the moratorium on additional taxis had been lifted. That information was not correct and Administrator Williams said the eight plates must be revoked. Five of the eight have not been activated and can be reclaimed. Two new cabs are on the road and a third has been purchased but not put into service. Councillors felt it would be an economic hardship to revoke these three plates and asked Chief Councillor Malone to appeal to the Minister asking that these three be allowed to continue holding their taxi plates. Otherwise, these three persons will face hardship with bank loans without the taxi income and will be liable for customs duty. Taxis are duty free when conditions are met. The budget for next year was discussed with Dundas Town Chairman Cay Mills protesting that Dundas Town did not have an opportunity to submit figures due to the Administrators meddling in their affairs at the last scheduled Dundas Town meeting. Administrator Williams responded that in all his years as a Commissioner and Administrator this is the first instance where he has received a letter from a lawyer concerning his relationship with a town or board in this case Chairman Cay Mills. Mr. Williams said the complaint along with his comments had been forwarded to the Attorney Generals office where there were enough lawyers to resolve the issue. The consolidated budget was submitted essentially the same as last year. Chief Councillor Malone suggested that they include $160,000 for security for the two government schools during the hours the properties are vacant. Two local bids for providing this security service have been received, each within a few dollars of this figure. If Nassau allows this, then security can be provided. Expenses for the new port were discussed without resolution. Studies are believed to be underway by Nassau for the management and maintenance of this facility. A new port director has been assigned and is expected to be on site sometime after March 10. Marsh Harb. Town Comm. 4 Mar 03 Mr. Alexander Williams, Senior Administrator, swore in Mrs. Kim Roberts as the newest member of the Marsh Harbour Town Committee. She replacees Mr. Nicholas Albury, who died in a plane crash in January. Mrs. Roberts became a Committee member by being the only nominee for the position in a bye election. Mrs. Jessica Pinder was introduced as the new Committee secretary, replacing Kim Roberts. A presentation on stray potcake dogs was made by Mr. Chris Roberts representing several groups working to control the dog population of the area. Mr. Williams asked that they submit a written proposal which he can present to central government. Central government will be setting up a Port Department office in Marsh Harbour. Mr. Roker, Deputy Port Controller in Nassau, will transfer to Marsh Harbour and will have all responsibility for the new freight dock. It was intimated that staff requirements may be between 10 and 17 persons. A suggestion for mounting a sailfish in a traffic circle was turned down when the Committee learned that it would cost $4000 for purchasing the sailfish. Marsh Harbour will be developing Goombay Park on the property between the new dock and the property of Abaco Outboards. The building on the premises was verbally given to the Town Committee to be used for storing sound equipment and other equipment while also providing public restrooms for the adjacent public dock. However, the Ministry of Works now wants to move its office into that building. The Marsh Harbour Town Committee approved the proposed budget for the fiscal year July 2003-June 2004 which is basically the same as last year. The members want to see several roads repaired where there are pot holes and trenches dug by government corporations. They mentioned the road outside the old Marsh Harbour primary school, Fire Road near the Batelco office, near the Assembly of God Church and near Roger Delancys home in Spring City. Mr. Williams explained that Batelco, BEC and Water and Sewerage must have permission from the Ministry of Works to dig up roads and then are responsible to see that repairs are made. Several bums loiter on Front Street. The police cannot pick them up unless they are on private property. However, their presence upsets some who must work in that area. The Committee members want to suggest to Heal Our Land group which is setting up a half way house for addicts that they find a location away from a residential area. They now have the use of a house behind C and G Restaurant. A petition was presented to the Committee signed by 73 residents of the area behind C and G Restaurant requesting that the half way house not be in this residential area. The Committee would like to see a K-9 unit on Abaco. Councillor Chad Sawyer explained that there are three types of trainLocal Government at Work Please see Local Govt. Page 21 Mrs. Kim Roberts was sworn in as a member of the Marsh Harbour Town Committee by Mr. Alexander Williams, Senior Administrator for Central Abaco on March 4.

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 21 Located in The Pink Building Royal Harbour Village Opposite Boat Harbour Entrance Visit our web site to view these properties and more throughout the Bahamas From Grand Bahama to Great InaguaTel: 242-367-3262 Fax: 242-367-3260 www.bahamasrealty.bs E-mail: abaco@bahamasrealty.bs Kathleen Albury Sales & Appraisals June Russell Sales Celeste Pinder Rental Agent Select Properties Bahama Palm Shores. Gorgeous 28,000 plus square foot building site situated on Eight Mile Bay beach, well-priced. Safe, quiet and secluded. #7479. $86,500 Casuarina and Bahama Palm Shores. Walk to Eight Mile Beach! Nice selection of well-priced home sites. From $15,000 for inland to $89,900 for beachfront. Call for Details. Guana Cay. Cozy 2/1 cottage, direct Atlantic beach frontage, super rental record. Near Nippers and just steps to the beach. Great investment. #6588. $375,000 Joes Creek. 2+ acres. Build single family or duplex. Nicely forested highway frontage and beach access. #7273. $144,000 Leisure Lee. Half acre plus building site. 100+ ft. on beach. Stunning Sea of Abaco views. Ready to build. All offers considered. #5272. $233,500 Marsh Harbour. Near Boat Harbour and all amenities. Commercial/residential site, build single or multi-family. #6351 $120,000 Marsh Harbour. Lovely, 3/2 home on 1 acre, Sea of Abaco frontage! Views of Elbow Cay and Lubbers Quarters. New interiors, dockage possible. #6493. $590,000 Scotland Cay. 1/2 acre home site, 150 on Sea of Abaco, dense natural native foliage, good deep water for dockage. #6180 $249,000 Commercial and Residential Rentals Regattas of Abaco. Choice rentals, beautifully furnished, long term and short term. Please call for details. Royal Harbour Village Shops. Retail/office and apartment space available. Please call for details. 1 Mar 03 The Lofty Fig Villas, an established landmark in Abaco, has been operating as a small hotel continuously since 1971. Family owned and operated, the Villas and grounds have been meticulously and lovingly maintained over the years. The cozy villa-style hotel is situated on approximately one and one-half acres of the most desirable property in Marsh Harbour. Located in the heart of charming restaurant row and the tourist strip, The Fig, as it is affectionately known, is ideally located for any variety of business opportunities targeting Abacos significant visitor and tourist population. At present, only a small portion of the property is developed, allowing for the building of additional guest cottages, restaurant, boutique, etc. The guest accommodations comprise six air-conditioned selfcatering units with two units in each building; the construction is cement block. Each unit is tiled throughout and features an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. An openair porch allows guests to enjoy the views of the resorts lovely landscaped grounds. In excellent condition, fully furnished and equipped for the easy tropical living, each unit has undergone continuous refurbishing over the years. The property includes a 500 square foot office facility with attached laundry, pristine fresh-water pool and other small outbuildings. Occupancy has been consistent with visitors returning year after year and represents a great investment opportunity. List No. 7532. Details on Request The LofThe Lof The LofThe Lof The Lof ty Fig Villasty Fig Villas ty Fig Villasty Fig Villas ty Fig Villas Your Key to Real Estate Sales & Appraisals In The Bahamas Serving The Bahamas for Over 50 Years ing, dogs which can detect explosives, drugs or attack dogs. He would like to see a dog able to detect drugs which would cost $15,000. The members wonder if the Police Department would train someone, perhaps a Reservist, who would be responsible for a dog. A trained dog needs to be worked two hours daily to maintain their skills. Committee members want to restore the old jail house and rock wall that is located on Soldier Road. They would like to convert the old rock building into a museum. It is a historic landmark and the last of such buildings in Marsh Harbour. They feel that by turning it into a museum, it would become a tourist attraction. Many want to work on the building and others have made financial pledges. A letter from central government indicates that 10 acres of Crown Land between St. Francis de Sale Catholic School and Forest Heights Academy will be leased to the Marsh Harbour Sporting Association for recreation purposes. The request for two other pieces of Crown Land by the Town Committee is receiving consideration. One piece is the property where the Marsh Harbour Community Library is located. That is a very old building, dating back to the early 1960s. The Town would consider improving the library but does not want to invest in capital improvments unless they can secure a long term lease for the land. The other property is the old packing shed site next to the BEC sub station a block east of the Conch Inn Resort. The Committee wants to make that into a waterfront park. Local Govt.From Page 20 Building Materials Windows & Doors Flooring & Roofing Bathroom & Kitchen Cabinets Plumbing Fixtures Paints Lighting Fixtures Electrical Items Hand & Power Tools Garden Supplies & MoreClose to the Port Deliveries ArrangedPhone 561-627-9555 Fax 561-625-33663860 N. Lake Blvd. Lake Park (West Palm Beach)Call for your free catalogBy Erin Pagliaro The Minister of Health, the Hon. Dr. Marcus Bethel, held a meeting with nongovernmental agencies from around the nation at the Ministry of Health conference room in Nassau on February 27th. Both the President and Vice President of Abacos Friends of the Environment attended along with representatives from the Bahamas National Trust, Andros Conservancy and Trust (AnCat), ReEarth, Oceans Alive, the College of the Bahamas Department of Environmental Planning and the Bahamas Environment Science & Technology Commission (BEST), a governmental department. The Minister called this meeting in order to foster a working relationship with environmental community-based organizations and to relay first hand the governments position on several controversial environmental issues. Among the topics discussed were the proposed LNG pipelines and re-gasification plants, the status of oil exploration and drilling in Bahamian waters and the process by which Environmental Impact Assessments are reviewed. This type of discourse between governmental agencies and local organizations is essential for there to be community participation in these most important issues. As our government faces many decisions which impact our natural environment, our involvement as citizens is invaluable. If you would like to participate in conservation projects here on Abaco or if you have environmental concerns for your community, please contact Friends of the Environment in Marsh Harbour at 3672721.Environmentalists Meet with Health Minister

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Page 22 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 A DIVISION OF ABACO MARKETS LTD.Don MacKay Blvd. Marsh Harbour, Abaco Don MacKay Blvd. Marsh Harbour, Abaco Don MacKay Blvd. Marsh Harbour, Abaco Don MacKay Blvd. Marsh Harbour, Abaco Don MacKay Blvd. Marsh Harbour, AbacoTel: (242) 367-2020/8 Tel: (242) 367-2020/8 Tel: (242) 367-2020/8 Tel: (242) 367-2020/8 Tel: (242) 367-2020/8Fax: (242) 367-2242 Fax: (242) 367-2242 Fax: (242) 367-2242 Fax: (242) 367-2242 Fax: (242) 367-2242CC CC C OO OO O MPLETE GRMPLETE GR MPLETE GRMPLETE GR MPLETE GR OCEROCER OCEROCER OCER Y LINEY LINE Y LINEY LINE Y LINE DISTRIBDISTRIB DISTRIBDISTRIB DISTRIB UTUT UTUT UT ORS IN ABORS IN AB ORS IN ABORS IN AB ORS IN AB AA AA A CC CC C O FORO FOR O FORO FOR O FOR CHOICE MEATS FRESH FRUITS & VEGETABLES DAIRY PRODUCTS & FROZEN FOODS FAMOUS BRAND NAMES NABISCO WISE MURRAYS QUAKER DURACELL DEL MONTE BLUEBIRD GATORADE Y our business is our business at Abaco Wholesale... Weve got more of what youre looking for! www.coldwellbankerbahamas.comBy Portia Jonsson Neighborhood Crime Watch has proved very successful in major cities around the world. It is built on the premise that getting together with your neighbors to take action can cut local crime rates. Neighborhood Crime Watch is not just about reducing crime figures it is about creating communities which care. It brings everyone together and lends value to the old saying about being our brothers keeper. As we talk about crime here on Abaco and discuss methods of crime prevention, it may alarm you. But remember, the risk of actually being a victim of violent crime is very small. The majority of crimes, more than 90 percent, in fact, are committed against property, not people. Neighborhood Crime Watch is about taking common sense precautions. It provides reassurance and comfort to our citizens that we will NOT let Abaco be taken over by criminals. Citizens Against Crime has been operating in Central Abaco for two years. Nightly patrols are carried out throughout Murphy Town, Dundas Town and Marsh Harbour. Security Officers are former police officer Clifton McDonald and trained security officer Martin Johnson. There is a crime committee which meets occasionally and acts as a go between Police and community. Mr. Randy Key decided to start a crime watch program after a death in his family and was propelled further by a suggestion from the Commissioner of Police to establish a local crime committee. So far Citizens Against Crime has participated in one apprehension involving criminal activity and has been a unknown deterrent in many others as criminals are aware of their patrol. Support from the community has been fair but this year funds are short. Mr. Key says in order to keep the patrol operating, the funding level must be kept up. Citizens Against Crime is actively seeking donations. Besides the salaries of the two men, expenses include fuel and maintenance to the cars and radio equipment. Cheques may be sent to Citizens Against Crime, P.O. Box AB-20095, Marsh Harbour, Abaco. Visa and Mastercard are also accepted. For more information please contact Mr. Key at phone 367-2674 or fax 367-4755. Working together, we can make a positive difference.Citizens Against Crime Needs Our SupportFebruary 18 marked another milestone in the history of the Cancer Society of the Bahamas. In the morning ground-breaking for the long awaited Cancer Caring Centre in Nassau took place with President Judy Ward-Carter and Ron Phillips, M.P., Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health, performing the ceremonial turning of the first spadeful of soil. It is expected that without any setbacks Stage One will be completed by the end of the year. This section will comprise ten rooms for patients, a Common Room and kitchen. The Centre will offer a home away from home for those cancer patients requiring accommodation whilst undergoing treatment within an empathetic environment. The Abaco Branch has, over the years, been able to contribute $36,000 to this 2.4 million dollar project. Later in the day at the Annual General Meeting of the Society, reports were presented to the President on the activities of each Branch, namely Abaco, Eleuthera and Grand Bahama. It is evident that Abaco is the most active and has significantly assisted those stricken with cancer. During the year under review twenty-five airfares were purchased for patients at a cost of $5,000. A further $2,000 was spent assisting with cook-outs and medical expenses. The annual pap-smear and prostate examination clinics were again successful and a record number of examinations were performed. The number of men examined was double that of the previous years. Fund raising was less remunerative than last year and reflected the slowing of the economy. Despite this, the community responded very generously to the Societys appeals, for which the Branch is grateful and the patients appreciative. It is clear that the need is great. The Society is often unaware of persons struggling with cancer and the public is urged to inform the Branch of those so afflicted. There is no stigma attached to this disease! It affects old and young alike, black or white, rich or poor. Everyone knows someone with the problem but together their burden can be eased.Cancer Society Moves Ahead SupportCitizens Against CrimeWorking to Keep Our Crime Down

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 23 The Conch Inn Marina Deep water berths for vessels up to 120 ft. Marsh Harbours premier marina Full service with 80-slips Texaco fuel stationThe Moorings Yacht Charters The Best Sailing Vacations In The World! Prestige Class crewed yacht charter Sailing Sloops and cats 35 ft. 47 ft. Power catamarans 37 ft.The Conch Inn Resort Hotel rooms with garden & harbour views Fresh water swimming pool Conch Crawl Restaurant and Bar Dive Abaco! SCUBA / Snorkle CenterThe Conch Inn Resort and MarinaPO Box AB20469, Marsh Harbour, Abaco Ph 242-367-4000 Fax 367-4004 Email: moorings_conchinn@oii.net www.moorings.comCome and experience the beauty of the Bahamas. Were waiting to take your lines. Compliments of The Moorings and The Conch Inn Hotel and MarinaTide Pelican Harbour April 2003 SC Bootle Highway 3 1/2 Miles outside Marsh HarbourJoin us for some of the best Bahamian Dishes you will find in Abaco at affordable prices.For Dinner Reservations Call Us Tel: 367-5331 or 367-5333 Look For Our Sign! Looking For ALooking For A Looking For ALooking For A Looking For A New Place To Dine New Place To Dine New Place To Dine New Place To Dine New Place To DineThe Lazy Parrot The Lazy Parrot The Lazy Parrot The Lazy Parrot The Lazy ParrotMonday Sunday Lunch 11:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. Dinner 6:30 p.m. 9:30 p.m. Happy hour Weekdays 5:30 6:30 p.m. Come and enjoy our Bahamian Breakfast! Saturday Morning 8 10 a.m. Sunday Breakfast 9 11 a.m.The Ministry of Tourism is initiating a series of motivational seminars to give Bahamians greater appreciation of our tourists and how to interact with them. The first session was held on February 26 with the Hon. Agatha Marcelle, MP and Parliamentary Secretary with the Ministry of Tourism, who spoke on The Importance of Customer Service More than 100 persons crowded the Below Decks room at Abaco Beach Resort to hear her as she stressed the importance of treating our visitors well. The survey taken by the Ministry of Tourism at the departure of visitors shows that their main complaint is poor service. The visitors feel that they need better service when they consider the cost of their vacations. Mrs. Marcelle pointed out that we have great things working for here in this country but we will lose out if we do not give good service. She pointed out that in giving excellent customer service, it will benefit us individually by giving us a better quality of life and making the Bahamas a better place.. Mrs. Marcelle challenged the group to be whatever they wanted to be. God gave us the ability to make ourselves what we want to be. She stressed that we have to think well of ourselves and be positive. Then we can be positive with others, thanking them for what they do for us and giving them a positive attitude. She was accompanied by Ms. Antoinette Davis Regional Manager for the Northern Bahamas. The large group responded well to her talk.Tourism Hosts Motivational SpeakerThe Abaco office of the Ministry of Tourism is sponsoring a series of motivational presentations to encourage Abaco people to appreciate the value of our visitors. Our economy is built almost entirely on tourism. However, many tourists are not satisfied with the level of service they receive. On February 26 the Hon. Agatha Marcelle, MP and Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, spoke to more than 100 persons at the Abaco Beach Resort. Shown above are, left to right, Mrs. Kendy Anderson, Abaco office; Ms. Antoinette Davis, Regional Manager for the Northern Bahamas; Mr. Don Cornish, Manager of the Abaco office; Mrs. Marcelle; and Ms. Wynsome Ferguson of the Abaco Office.

Page 26 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 $15,000 REWARD FIRE REWARD NOTICE!!!Persons with information contact 477-0557A reward in the sum of $15,000 is being offered for information which leads to the successful arrest and conviction of those responsible for the fire damage at All Abaco Concerte and Building Supplies, Treasure Cay, Abaco, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, 18th December 2002 All Abaco Concrete and Building SuppliesRon Pagliaro As many of us well know, fires in our pine forests are a growing community concern especially in early spring when the ground is at its driest. Fire is no stranger to our pine rock-land forest. In fact, it is essential to maintaining balance within the ecosystem; for instance, fire prepares seed beds for young pine tree regeneration, and many plants produce fire induced flowers. However, fire can be dangerous and destructive when used or suppressed wantonly. Fire can encroach unchecked on populated areas, trap unknowing persons within the fire line, smoke can cause hazards to motorists and has even shut down our airport. It is for this reason that education in fire management techniques is essential to understanding the effects of fire on people, property and wildlife thereby controlling its impacts for the better not the worse. The further goal of this education is to develop an ongoing forest fire management program for Abaco that will actively control the severity of inevitable fires. The first step in accomplishing these tasks has been a joint venture between several Bahamian and U.S. based organizations including: Bahamas Department of Agriculture Bahamas Forestry Division Abacos Friends of the Environment Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire Department Bahamas National Trust The Nature Conservancy U.S. Forestry Service The Nature Conservancys Fire Initiative sponsored four persons from The Bahamas to attend their Introduction to Fire Management course held in the Rio Bravo Conservation Management Area of Belize. This one-week course dealt with three basic precepts of fire control tactics fire planning, prescribed burning and fire behavior. An actual prescribed (managed) burn of some 15 acres was conducted by the students and instructors at the culmination of the course. Why? one might ask. The students learned that nature and humans alike cause fire and suppress fire lightning strikes, slash and burn agricultural techniques, hunting practices, trash and garden waste fires and cigarettes are contributing factors to fire on Abaco and the region. Suppressing or preventing fire around populated areas allows fuels to accumulate over time. Inevitably, this hazardous build-up leads to large, uncontrollable fires that may threaten populated areas and or infrastructure such as schools and airports. The focus of the course was to teach appropriate mechanisms for controlling the impacts of all of these practices. Typically this is a program of prescribed, controlled burning within a larger comprehensive fire management plan. Prescribed burning is the controlled application of fire to the land used to accomplish a specific goal. Basically, reducing fuel loads in the forest by burning to a set prescription of fire intensity, on a designated area, under optimum prescribed conditions. Intensive classroom lectures focused on preparing the students for an actual prescribed burn that they would perform later on in the course. In order for fires to be controlled, one must have an in-depth knowledge of fire behavior. This means understanding such things as how wind, weather, land topography and fuel types affect the intensity and direction of fires. Students were instructed about managing smoke and the hazards smoke poses to households and motorists. More specifically, students were taught how to manage a prescribed burn by conducting a burn prescription. The burn prescription is a written document that outlines the entire burn procedure for a specific site; it outlines all of the mitigating factors of the prescribed burn including weather and wind parameters, fuel types, safety and contingency plans. It also outlines specific objectives for the burn. On day four of the course, we set off to put our knowledge to use a 15-acreFour Attend Fire Course in BelizeShown are the four of the men from The Bahamas who attended a one-week course in Belize on forest fire management organized by The Nature Conservancy. It included classroom work and even a prescribed burn which the students carried out under supervision. The group studied fire planning, prescribed burning and fire behavior. They included, left to right, Stanton Chea, Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire Department; Randolph Casper Burrows, Bahamas National Trust; Ron Pagliaro, Friends of the Environment; and David Knowles, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on Abaco. The Nature Conservancy sponsored the four men. Please see Fire Page 33

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 27 LIGHTBOURN REALTYEach office is independently owned and operatedIn addition to our friendly, experienced and professional services we offer:* Local knowledge Recommendations and/ or referrals to local builders & tradesmen Offices in Nassau which help expedite transactions Buyer & Seller consultations Appraisals & competitive market analysis. Referrals and co-broking with agents in all the Bahama Islands Locating and recommending an attorney to act on your behalfwww.coldwellbankerbahamas.com Green Turtle Cay OfficeAgent: Chris Farrington P.O. Box AB 22758 Green Turtle Cay, Abaco, Bahamas Office # 242-365-4695, Fax # 242365-4697 Email: chris.f@batelnet.bsNew! Secluded Island Retreat Three bedroom two bath home enjoys a commanding view of the ocean and a beautiful beach just steps from the front door. Home is fully furnished complete with a cozy fireplace, ceramic tiles and cypress woodwork throughout. Offered at $1,420,000 New! Near to Beaches Fully furnished 3 Bed / 2 bath vacation house with lovely views. Walking distance to resorts and docking facilities. Offered at $375,000 New! Two affordable Lots Coco Bay area, 2 minutes to beach. $30,000 each. New! Nice Neighbourhood 4 building lot walking distance to beaches, park and a public dock. $35,000 Beach front acre lot virtually on the Atlantic Ocean Beach. $210,000 Ocean View Two 1/3 acre lots with great views of the sea. $85,000 Beachfront 100 frontage by 800+ deep located on beautiful Long Bay Beach. $365,000 Black Sound harbour side lots near settlement. 1 acre plus, 100 on the water. $305,000 Split Level Townhouse 1/1 townhouse, walk to beach. A must see. $110,000 Manjack Cay Ten acres of elevated property with dock and over 300 feet on the Sea of Abaco. $300,000 owner will share expenses. Frank Lloyd Wright inspired home on large waterfront lot. 4 Bedr. / 4 Bath, swimming pool and guest cottage. Beautiful views, mature landscaped grounds. Offered at $710,000 Steps away from beach Lot with foundation and cistern already complete. Plans included. $95,000 Hillside Lot 1/3 acre with views of Coco Bay. Near beaches and docks. $55,000 UNDER CONTRACT UNDER CONTRACT K & S AUT K & S AUT K & S AUT K & S AUT K & S AUT O SERO SER O SERO SER O SER VICEVICE VICEVICE VICE Automotive Accessories Full Automotive Service Gasoline & Diesel Fuel Tires and Tire Repairs Expert Mechanics Automobile Parts Oil Changes Batteries Crockett Drive & Don MacKay Blvd.Marsh Harbour Phone 367-2655 Percy Albury Owner/Manager Don MacKay B oulevard, Marsh HarbourPh: (242) 367-3186 Fax: (242) 367-3469 marcoac@batelnet.bsAppliance CentreAir Conditioning Central & Wall Units Refrigeration Household Appliances Electrical Contracting & Supplies Lighting ShowroomWW WW W e service our sales e service our sales e service our sales e service our sales e service our sales Quality Star Auto Service Station And GarageDon MacKay Blvd., Marsh HarbourTHE PLACE FOR YOUR ENTIRE AUTOMOBILE AND TRUCK NEEDSWe stock a wide variety of parts and tyres. If you need an item that is not in stock, we will quickly import it for you Open7 am 7 pm Monday thru Thursday 7 am 8 pm Friday and Saturday Tel: (242) 367-2979 By Milanne (Mimi) Rehor On February 6, 2003, the wild horses of Abaco received official notice of support from the government in the form of a letter from Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister, Ronald W. Thompson. The letter stated Please be advised that the Government has agreed to the creation of a reserve for the Abaco wild horses adjacent to Bahama Star Citrus Farm . . Eleven years have passed since the existence of the horses was established. For the last five years information about increasing deaths and escalating problems seemed to fall on deaf ears. Then suddenly, in the summer of 2002, a series of events occurred that have given the horses a chance at a future. In August of 2002 the horses were accepted into the Horse of the Americas Registry which accepts only horses of proven Spanish descent. DNA work, photographic evidence and the existence of at least 17 Spanish era wrecks in the area where the horses are found provided the needed proof. The horses were declared to be a sub breed of the Spanish Barbary horse and are now known internationally as the rare and endangered Abaco Barbary Horse. The horses lineage is traced to the Barbary Coast of North Africa. They were later taken to Spain by the Moors and developed into the Spanish Barb. Earlier in the year concerned Bahamians and residents began to form a support group for the horses. Initially known as the Friends of the Abaco Barbary Horse, the group will in future be known as the Wild Horses of Abaco Protection Society (WHOAps), committed to maintaining the Abaco Barbary Horse. WHOA began a multi level campaign to publicize the increasingly desperate plight of the horses which are succumbing to the effects of a radical change in habitat. When three horses were rescued and taken to Bahama Star Farm in the 1960s after all the other horses were killed, the farm became a sanctuary, but it was a potentially deadly sanctuary. As long as the horses moved back and forth between the farm and the forest, they did well. After Hurricane Floyd and the fires that completely surrounded the farm, the horses moved onto the farm permanently. Used to traveling long distances and foraging in the forest to which they had become accustomed for 500 years, the incredibly rich grasses and soft ground of the farm began to play havoc with their health. The mares became obese, hoof problems began slowly and have increased ever since. No foals have been born since before Floyd. The need to get the horses back into the forest on a protected preserve became acute. The campaign of the Friends, now WHOA, had its first success when Prime Minister Perry Christie announced to Parliament in November 2002 that he was personally in full support of the Abaco horses and he said he would back formation of a preserve. Later in the month WHOA learned that 3,500 acres had been set aside for the horses. And on February 6, 2003, Board Member of WHOA, Mr. Gary Sawyer, received the official Letter of Intent from Mr. Thompson and presented it to Milanne (Mimi) Rehor, President of Ark-wild, Inc. This is the U.S. not-for-profit company she formed to help save the horses when the work she began 11 years ago began to show that the horses were doomed to extinction unless rapid and serious steps were taken to save them. Fund raising is now moving into high gear in order to obtain the equipment needed to set up the preserve. Memberships, horse adoptions, lists of the many needed pieces of equipment both large and small have been launched and there will be more information available soon. Be sure to find out more at A Buck a Book in the Abaco Shopping Centre where used books are available in exchange for donations for the horses and at or phone 242-367-4505 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.Wild Horse Preserve Is ConfirmedThe government has confirmed that they will set aside 3500 acres so the 16 remaining wild horses of Abaco can be relocted to a reserve. They are currently on the Bahama Star Farm and it is thought that the plentiful grasses and soft ground are causing health problems with obesity and with their hoofs. Shown above is Ms. Mimi Rehor receiving the letter from Mr. Gary Sawyer confirming the governments approval of the reserve. UNDER CONTRACT

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Page 28 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 Brokers Anne Albury Marcellus Roberts(242) 365-8538 Ph (242) 365-8587 Ph/Fax ROYAL PALM Canal Front Condos with on-site Tennis and Pool Phase I 3 bed / 2.5 bath -12 ft. wide slip$302,500 ATLANTIS Canal Front Condos with on-site Pool Bldg. 3 Downstairs 2 bed / 2 bath with boat slip$182,000 Bldg 4 Upstairs 2 bed / 2 bath, boat slip$194,000 Bldg 5 Upstairs 2 bed / 2 bath, boat slip$194,000 MARINERS COVE Townhouse Condos with on-site Tennis and Pool Garden/Pool View 2 bed / 1 bath $113,000 Marina View 1 bed / 1 bathbeginning at $91,000 2 bed / 1 bath $121,000 VILLAS Beach Villa Subdivision Garden villa 2 bed / 2 bath extra features $157,300 Ocean Villa Subdivision 2 bed / 2 bath special garden location with pool view $260,000 2 bed / 2 bath with direct greenway access to ocean plus extra features $272,000 APARTMENTS Rock Point four-plex, 2 storey CBS apartment build ing, each level has 2 full apartments with 2 bed, 1 bath,living/dining/kitchen. Great rental investment. Must see. $280,000 TREASURE HOUSES Ocean front luxury units with lagoon pool / waterfall 2 bed / 2 bath octagonal house$275,000 BAHAMA BEACH CLUB New luxury condominium project on Treasure Cay Beach. 3 bed / 2 bath / Den / Lanai / on-site pool and many other featuresStarting at $425,000 Plus 14% closing BRIGANTINE BAY ESTATES "Sea Cliff" newly completed 2 storey CBS home fully furnished. Living / dining / kitchen downstairs, bed rooms upstairs. Direct greenway access to Treasure Cay beach $431,000 Sableau Soleil Canal front with dock. Island simplicity home, 3 bed / 2 bath, detached garage with half bath. Waterfront view from master bedroom and open concept living / dining / kitchen. $430,500 WINDWARD BEACH Seaclusion Ocean front CBS house, 2 bed / 2 bath plus detached 20 x 30 2-car garage with extra bath. House has wonderful view as well as prevailing tradewinds $800,000 LEEWARD BEACH ESTATE Blue House One-of-a-kind beach front home designed by the Architect / Owner for family and beach living. 5 bed / 4 bath, large living / dining area with modern kitchen, wrap-around deck. Many, many extra features. $2,100,000 CASUARINA BEACH/OCEAN BOULEVARD "Toad Hall" Package deal. Extra large ocean front lot with unlimited opportunity for building your dream home. Directly behind is your present main home on its own lot. Two storey with 4 bed / 3 bath upstairs and large living / dining / kitchen down stairs. Detached double garage with 1 bed / 1 bath guest apt. above. $1,169,000 "Sea Grapes" Directly on the ocean modern CBS fully tiled 3600 sq. ft. home on extra large lot with 215 ft. frontage. Features 3 bed / 3 bath, fully equipped kitchen, large living / dining area (open concept). Two bedrooms / living / dining / kitchen all face ocean side and have direct access to beautiful garden and beach. Garage and utility in main house with additional detached garage / work shop / storage. Grounds fully landscaped with irrigation / sprinkler system. MOTIVATED SELLER $1,600,000 Serenity A real Estate property. Modern 4 bed/4.5 bath, 5600 sq. ft., two storey CBS home with incredible ocean views. Upper level extra large, open concept living/dining/kitchen with outdoor covered balcony and master en-suite bed/bath. Lower level 2 bed/2 bath, lounge, wet bar plus additional bed/bath and double garage. Property has two fully landscaped lots with 290 feet ocean front. Special property with many, many additional features including 2 bed/1 bath caretakers cottage. $3,800,000 GALLEON BAY CANAL / ESTATES Safe Harbour Canal front with excellent elevation. Octagonal 825 sq. ft. garage / efficiency guest house with plans for main house. Dock with power in place. Must see.$369,000 Laguna brand new canal front, octagonal home,fully furnished, 3 bed/ 2 bath, modern open concept, living/dining/kitchen plus partially covered deck. Perfect island retreat for some lucky family $676,500 Island Times 2500 sq. ft. modern spacious 3 bed / 2 1/2 bath, living/dining/kitchen opening onto covered patio facing waterfront. Double garage/ utility. Extra adjacent lot. Total frontage 108 ft. $830,250 Seaductress / Harbours Edge Modern CBS 3 bed/ 3 bath home including private entry suite, pool, 80 ft., full serviced dock, 2 car garage including two vehicles. Exceptional location and view. Many more features, must see to appreciate. MOTIVATED SELLER$1,200,000 VACANT LOTS AVALABLE Windward Beach / Oceanfront beginning at $150,000 Canal Frontbeginning at $99,000 Golf Course / Interiorbeginning at $25,000 Sandpiper Beach/ocean front$500,000Treasure Cay Properties Offered by Treasure Cay SpecialistsTreasure Cay has one of the world's best Beaches, Golf Course, Tennis, full service Marina, just naming a few amenities. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information We not only sell here, we live here and love it.For further details and pictures visit our web page at treasurecayrealestate.com Mailing address: P.O. Box AB22183, Treasure Cay, Abaco, Bahamas E-mail: tcrealestate@oii.netMember SOLD SOLD SOLD government in a more timely way. It now takes three to six months to get a reply to their letters. They need answers much more quickly. The new channel markers are not lit and are very dangerous to boaters at night. The markers show the way to the new freight dock. Many local boaters are out at night. Committee members feel that there will be a very serious accident if lights are not installed soon. There are more than 100 shipping containers through town more or less permanently in place. Anyone wanting to have a container on his property is supposed to get permission from Town Planning and must name a specific time period. If permanent they must show good reason. Many of these containers have been in place for years. Stray dogs are a major problem. Two incidents recently, one in Nassau involving a small child and the other at Harbour Island where a tourist received over 100 bites, have brought the problem to the forefront. The Committee will ask Chris Roberts to discuss the problem with them at their next meeting to see what can be done. There are incidents of dogs chasing people on bicycles and a woman run off a motorbike by dogs. The law states that all dogs must be licensed and have the license on them. The town needs more security and more police officers. The town will assist the police department find housing. An empty house on Front Street with two bedrooms, a house by the old Batelco tower behind the castle and another house behind the Ministry of Works compound can all be repaired and fixed up for housing for additional police officers. Residents in the area of a proposed halfway house are complaining that they do not want the half way house in their neighborhood. The Committee is very sympathetic with the Heal Our Land group and wants to help them. However, they feel that another location would be more desirable for several reasons. The addicts need to be somewhere out of town. Many families have friends and family members addicted to drugs or alcohol. They need help and Heal Our Land has very good intentions. However, the location they are considering is residential, near a business area with a liquor store and near a cemetery where loitering in not appropriate. Immigration continues to be a problem which government is not addressing. Building in the Mud and Pigeon Peas areas continues and is not being monitored. The town wants construction to be stopped to keep those areas from expanding. There are second home owners who are gainfully employed.Committee GoalsThe Committee is planning to develop the land between the new freight dock and Abaco Outboards into a park which can accommodate town events. They are very disappointed that they will not have the use of the building on the property. They were verbally promised the property and building to develop into a park which they named Goombay Park. The location of the fence was changed slightly to accommodate the park. The building would have provided necessary restrooms and a storage area for sound equipment and other items. However, the Ministry of Works is now hoping to move into it. The town has applied for three pieces of Crown Land. One is the site of the Marsh Harbour Community Library. They town would be able to make improvements if they could lease the land. They have asked to lease the land where the packing shed used to be next to the BEC sub station. They want to make a park there and build a small police substation. They feel that tourists would feel much more secure seeing an officer there. The third piece is the 10-acre plot next to the St. Francis de Sales School which Marsh Harbour Sporting Association wants to develop into a sporting complex. They have heard that the paper work on this last piece of land is in process. They are developing plans to make the old jail into a museum which could be a tourist attraction if they can get approval to repair the old structure. The members would like to see foreignowned property reassessed. They know of examples of foreigners paying the taxes on unimproved land years after they have built a large house. The Public Treasury is short of money which means that all town committees are having to manage on limited funds. However, more money could be collected with updated property assessments.SummaryThe Town Committee feels that local government can work very effectively. The first term was very successful. They want to see local government develop. They want to make a difference. However, they feel that the decisions made by the Committee and the Boards are not binding but are overridden by others overstepping authority or bypassing the normal channels of decision making. The Committee wants those in charge to give answers to local people. They are proposing a town meeting to invite representatives from the various government agencies to give answers. M HarbourFrom Page 3Committee Has Many Complaints

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 29 S.C. Bootle High SchoolSpring Fest Spring Fest Spring Fest Spring Fest Spring FestMarch 29 beginning at Noon Games Handcrafts Slow Bicycle Race(last across line wins) Bahamian food Dinners $10 with sodaLive EntertainmentRonnie Butler and Sweet Emily The Exclusive Bahamas Affiliate for: CHRISTIE'SGREAT ESTATES Cabbage Cove 1/3 Acre Sea of Abaco Beach-front Building Sites Mid-way between Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay................................# AB5142 -$ 118,000. Elbow Cay "Marnie's Creek" 1/2 acre hillside building sites, a private dock slip for each parcel Fabulous Sea of Abaco views .................................................................# AB5114 from:$ 230,000.Elbow Cay "Tahiti North" 2.5 acre building site north of and adjoining Dorro's Cove 91' of Sea of Abaco frontage 1,200' depth...............................................# AB5065 $ 1,500,000. Green Turtle Cay Coco Bay Area 1 Acre 140' x 300' Ocean Beach-front Building Site super views..................# AB5113 $ 275,000. Green Turtle Cay "Coco Sound" 28 prime residential building sites between Coco Bay and White Sound from 1/4 1/2 acre..........................# AB5090 from: $ 59,000. Green Turtle Cay -104' x 80' Building site.......................................................................................................................# 3619 $ 86,000. Green Turtle Cay Splendid hill-top one acre building site. Great elevation, Wonderful White Sound and Sea of Abaco views......................................# AB5094 -$ 485,000. Marsh Harbour Great Abaco Club Two Adjoining Hill-top lots Each with private boat slips ...................................................................# AB5148 $295,000. Available separately or together................................................................. # AB5149 $295,000.Sand Banks Creek One Acre plus Wooded lots with over 90' of water frontage on Bay 3 miles south of Treasure Cay. Limited Number Available....................... # AB5069 from: $ 63,700.South Abaco Old Kerr's 24.69 acres 327 ft. magnificent sandy beach-front. 1/2 hour from Marsh Harbour. Suitable for construction of cottages or small resort..................................# AB5104 -$ 222,000.Tilloo Cay "Thompson Tract" 7 acres. sea-to-sea, good elevation for great Sea of Abaco and Ocean Views can be divided into 2 3.5 acre parcels........# AB5113 -$965,000. HGChristie.com "All you need to know about real estate in The Bahamas!" 03/15/03Derek Lee, BRI Abaco District Managing BrokerRetta Thomas Office Manager Bay Street P.O. Box AB 20777 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Tel: (242) 367-4608 Fax: (242) 367-5452 e.mail: dereklee@oii.netMargot LeeEstate Agent Man-O-War Cay, Abaco Tel: (242) 365-6156 Fax: (242) 365-6229 e.mail: margot@abacoinet.comChristopher PlummerEstate Agent Green Turtle Cay, Abaco Tel/Fax: (242) 365-4648 e.mail: bpepperinn@abacoinet.comJohn CashEstate Agent Treasure Cay, Abaco Tel/Fax: (242) 365-8467 e.mail: jic@oii.netRoscoe Thompson, IIIEstate Agent Elbow Cay, Abaco Tel/Fax: (242) 366-0665 e.mail: roscoe@hgchristie.com VACANT LAND BEC Honored ASP RussellOn March 11 the Bahamas Electricity Corporation honored ASP Leland Russell for his service on Abaco the past several years as Officer-in-Charge. Mr. Russell was transferred to Freeport last month. Shown above is Mr. Benjamin Beneby, General Manager of BEC Abaco, presenting the plaque to Mr. Russell while Mr. George Martin and Mrs. Vashti Albury, both BEC employees, look on. By Nancy Burnett On February 6 Erin Pagliaro, President of Friends of the Environment; Ron Pagliaro of Abaco Outback; Michael Albury, Vice President of Friends of the Environment; and Nancy Burnett, Education Officer of Friends of the Environment, attended an Environmental Summit at The Island School in Cape Eleuthera. The Summit was attended by distinguished members of Parliament, the Hon. Perry Christie, the Hon. Alfred Gray, MP and Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Hon. Oswald Ingraham, MP and Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Hon. Obie Wilchcombe, MP and Minister of Tourism, and Ambassador Richard Blankenship, US Ambassador to The Bahamas, along with an international group of persons dedicated to The Bahamas and its environment. The purpose of the Environmental Summit was to create dialogue between educators, scientists, environmentalists, architects, government officials, students, supporters and friends in response to a proposal submitted by The Island School to the National Economic Council of The Bahamas. The proposal serves as a preliminary outline for the formation of the Cape Eleuthera Institute. The research information will serve the educational mission of the school and translate into useful and productive benefits for the people of South Eleuthera and The Bahamas. Started in 1999 by Chris Maxey, the Cape Eleuthera Island School is home to about 40 motivated senior high school students, both American and Bahamian. During the three-month program students learn science, Bahamian history, art, math, marine biology, SCUBA diving and kayaking. There is a strong emphasis on eco-education. As one walks around the campus, the creative and environmentally innovative ideas that make The Island School are apparent. Water is caught off roofs and filtered. Waste water is purified by plants in a built-in wetland. Electricity is made by sun and wind. Teachers are students students are teacher, respecting and assisting each other in the learning process. Dialogue is crucial. Taking care of others is a priority. The world and our place in it are an integral part of The Island School During the three-day Summit, focus groups discussed, brainstormed and shared ways in which a larger institute at Cape Eleuthera could help South Eleuthera and The Bahamas become more self sufficient. The Island School teachers, scientists in the field of aquiculture, architects, environmental experts, energy consultants and students presented and demonstrated ways in which, through careful planning and cost efficient methods, we as individuals and policy makers can impact our lifestyles while maintaining and preserving our delicate Bahamian environment. The implications of the Summit are of a serious magnitude and great importance to all that make this beautiful country their home. For more information on ways in which you can learn more about specific ways that you can impact your environment in a positive and pro-active way, please contact any of the local Summit attendees.Four Attend Environmental Summit in EleutheraEarly in February four from Abaco attended an environmental summit at The Island School in Cape Eleuthera. They met with like-minded people, government officials and the American ambassador to discuss the preservation of our environment. Shown above is a group of participants who includes, left to right, Mr. Eric Carey, previously with the Ministry of Agriculture; Mrs. Erin Pagliaro, President of Friends of the Environment; Mr. Ron Pagliaro with Abaco Outback; Mr. Michael Albury, President of the Abaco Chamber of Commerce; an unknown participant; Ms. Nancy Burnett, Education Officer of Friends of the Enviroment; and two from other locations attending the summit. Your Ad Here Will Bring Results

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Page 30 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 J & J ELECTRICBILL JOHNSTONMIKE JORGENSENELECTRICAL CONTRACTORSINDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL SPECIALISTS CELL: 242-357-6674 (BILL) CELL: 242-477-5222 TEL: 242-367-5145 FAX: 242-367-5144 P.O. BOX AB 20413 MARSH HARBOUR ABACO BAHAMASBy Michelle Bethell The lack of public information in The Bahamas is ironic. The Bahamas became independent from Britain in the early 1970s for many reasons. One reason was the lack of input or say of the colonists in the running of the colony. Britain for years told its Bahamian colony what to do, how to do it and often ignored the requests of the colonists for various items and needs. Yet, despite the fact that the Bahamas has become independent, it suffers from relics of its past colonial ways. Despite the local town planning acts, our government in Nassau still makes the majority of larger decisions that affect our communities. Local government can still be bypassed to achieve individual objectives. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are one perfect example. EIAs serve as the primary document given to central government to review the implications, positive and negative impacts, of proposed developments before they are permitted. Typically, an EIA is submitted to the Bahamas Investment Authority which then forwards the document to the Bahamas Environment Science and Technology Commission (BEST) for review. The EIA looks great on paper; it basically consists of an adoption of items from the United States National Environmental Policy Act with items to be considered for projects, such as impacts to terrestrial and marine ecosystems, archeology, economics, social and cultural issues and public information. Over 10 copies of this document are regularly submitted to BEST for each project. The additional copies are supposed to be forwarded to various agencies within government for their review and comment. Well, this is not the case. BEST holds on to copies of the document. Few persons ever get to see the whole document, only sections may be copied and forwarded to other agencies and the public rarely if ever can review even portions of these documents. The same public information sections of the EIA, required in its preparation, are rarely seen by the same groups that they are meant to serve: the stakeholders, the PUBLIC. Persons at BEST state that there is no legal requirement for the public to review these documents, for a public hearing to be held and/or for other forms of public notification to be given. The power to approve the EIA and thereby permit a project is held by a select few who make decisions on what they perceive is best for those communities in which the development is to occur. In looking to the future of The Bahamas, the future quality of life and happiness of its citizens and residents, public review of proposed development projects through EIAs, public hearings or other forms of consultation are necessary. Public involvement is necessary to determine what is best for our communities. A hired consultant, a developer or a small group of agency persons cannot always know every impact of a project on a community. In addition, having input from local persons can benefit a project. Who often knows more about local resources, be they archeological, environmental or cultural, than the people who live there? And, who but the local community has the most to lose if a project is designed poorly? Do we want to keep repeating disasters? Emerald Bay, Exuma? Halls Pond? or North Bimini? Does government want an increasing mistrust of their actions due to their secrecy in an age where Bahamians are now becoming more and more educated? Well, obviously the answers to these questions are of course not. In looking toward the future of The Bahamas, Our Bahamaland, our people should and must be involved. Otherwise, our communities may suffer if poor decisions continue to be made. Otherwise, we are moving away from the concept of democracy and progress. Otherwise, we will allow bribery and corruption to continue. Otherwise, our communities will be forever relegated to be stuck in our colonial past, that is, be quiet, do as you are told and WE know what is best for YOU. The ideal public involvement process should include all affected residents and stakeholders. At a minimum, groups like Friends of the Environment and the Abaco Chamber of Commerce could act as a collective form of public representation and push for review of these documents and projects. We need to become more active in reviewing the decisions of town planning, the BEST Commission, the Port Authority and the Ministry of Works among others. These same groups could act as an effective lobbyist group to change the laws so that public notification and involvement becomes a part of the planning of our towns, the design of our highways, the running of our park systems, the development of future large scale projects and the conservation of environmentally sensitive areas. With these changes and with our input, we can then help to avoid mistakes of the past, minimize impacts upon particular groups or the environment and improve the quality of life in our communities.Wanted: Public Information in The Bahamas Office Ph. 242-367-2992 Fax 242-367-4800 P.O. Box AB 20900, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Brent Cartwright coldbank@abacoinet.com Mailin Sands msands@abacoinet.com Lightbourn Realty Cherokee Sound #1359 3/1 home in quiet peaceful neighbourhood. Partly furnished, private back yard and well-kept. Call today! Casuarina Point #1392 Bonefishermans Paradise-Best flats 5 minutes away from this 3/1 home on large landscaped lot with boat house, sea walled, dock. MAJOR REDUCTION $229,000 Lubbers #0304 Great Investment opportunity lot 139, commercial lot suitable for small marina, grocery store, boat storage and more. Call for more details. Marsh Harbour #0245 3/2 home in Cove Estates Partly furnished, close to conveniences, large kitchen and lovely high ceiling in living area.$185,000 Marsh Harbour #0167 3/2 home, wellkept, lovely landscaped yard, furnished and in desirable location.$233,000 Sand Banks vacant property available in the Sand Banks area, various sizes, Call today. GREAT PRICES STARTING AT #39,500. Motivated Seller Hope Town Lucayos 10,000 sq. ft lot with sea views. Private and quiet area $99,000 Guana Cay Gorgeous beach front property available. Call today Marsh Harbour Two, 2/1 apartments for sale, 1/1 efficiency in the rear also, fairly new appliances, furnished, fenced yard. $228,000 Marsh Harbour 2 acres of prime residential property. Runs 190 on the beautiful Sea of Abaco. Call for details. Cabbage Point Acreage available in 5 acre plots, with financing, 20% down balance over 5 years. Call today for more details. Casuarina Point vacant lot available, approx. 10,000sq.ft. $25,000 Bahama Palm Shores Call about our many listed properties in this fast growing community. Starting as low as $15,000 Marsh Harbour Beautiful 3/2 home in Great Abaco Club. Features include private dock, outside deck, the lovely view of the Sea of Abaco and is sold fully furnished. $585,000 Yellowwood Hilltop lot available. Magnificent views of the Atlantic. Close to Cherokee Sound and Little Harbour. US$59,500 Little Harbour Vacant lots on the rocky shoreline overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Also beach front lots available as well. Call for more details. Man-O-War Vacant property available. Inland lots within walking distance to a beach. Call for more information. Man-O-War Cay 2/1 charming cottage available in heart of town. Perfect for a vacation home. Close to all conveniences and close walk to a few lovely beaches. Dont delay. $159,000 website: www.coldwellbankerbahamas.com

Page 32 The Abaconian March 15th, 2003 A few select lots are now available on the Estate of Jack Patterson, known as Jacks Jungle, located on the island of Lubber s Quarters in the Sea of Abaco. You may ask, what makes these lots so special and rare? Heres your answer: This land has a very good natural energy because Mr. Patterson protected his estate from the excesses of developers since the 1 950s. He used the land as his own private nature park, cutting only small trails which meandered through his collection of native trees. There are 150 native trees in the Bahamas and up until the time of his passing Mr. Patterson continued to add more species to his collection which at last count stood at 137. A Little History About the Property.. Jack Patterson first noticed the beauty of Lubbers Quarters Cay in the 1950s while on holiday from his home in Nassau. As a naturalist Mr. Patterson fell in love with the pristine native forest and seclusion offered at Lubbers. He built a holiday home in the center of the island and 10 years later moved to Lubbers permanently. Mr. Patterson and his family were the only residents on Lubbers from 1968-1982. Du ring these years the estate was enjoyed by his family and many visitors who came to take the tour of Mr. Pattersons collection of native trees. During this period Mr. Patterson authored a hand guide-book titled Native Trees of The Bahamas. Most of his tree collection still thrives on the island. Locations to Choose From: From the hilltop lots enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean facing Tilloo Cut and Tahiti Beach. From the waterfront facing west you can see Man-O-War, Marsh Harbour and the glistening Sea of Abaco. From the interior you will be amongst virgin Bahamian broadleaf forest. The few acres available are surrounded by another 20 acres of undeveloped land and nature parks. Most likely any acre you choose will provide you with plenty of privacy. Land has been set aside in the form of nature parks to protect the many stands of these gorgeous trees that Mr. Patterson loved so much. His dream was for the forest to be seen and enjoyed. We honor that intention with a covenant stating that no trees may be cut or removed within 20 feet of a road/boundary. Further to that, there will only be small golf cart size trails between your acre and your private dock slip. Jacks JunglePrice ListWestern Lots. All lots 110 feet wide minimum, approx 250 feet deep. Frontage a mix of white sand and rock. W Lots$135,000 Northern Hilltop Lot N5$120,0000.946 Acres Central Hilltop Lots C Lots$150,000 Eastern Hilltop Lot E4$120,0000.867 Acres Southern Interior Lots S Lots$85,000 Prices include: 1.Brokers fee 2. Stamp Tax 3.Sellers Legal Fee Each lot will be provided with its own private dock slip on the east side and utilities will be brought to each lot (Electricity, Telephone Line, etc.) JACKS JUNGLELubbers Quarters Cay, Abaco, Bahamas Your Own Secluded Acre Surrounded by Trees and Nature.Lubbers Quarters Call Victor at Sea Grape Realty 242-367-2749 or visit our website www.jacksjungle.come-mail: seagraperealty@hotmail.comJacks Jungle Houses and Land For Sale or Rent Classified Advertisements REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE RENTAL HOUSES AND APARTMENTSBAHAMAS VACATIONS 100+ private Out Island homes, resorts, villas for rent. Free listing. Call 1-800-462-2426 http://www.bahamasvacations.com 2100 sq. ft. Warehouse next to the Abaco Water Bottling plant. Not being divided. This fenced-in area has electric and phone. Great site for light manufacturing, assembling, warehouse, whatever. 2100 square feet for just $1400 per month. Call Michael Albury at 3672951 or 359-6658 Marsh Harbour, East Bay Street. Office/store available. Also 1/2 office available. Call 3672922 Retail & Office Space Located in one of the most charming commercial buildings in Marsh Harbour. Busy upscale retail area, constant foot traffic. Ground floor available. Call: 367-3262 ext. 201 RENTAL HOUSES AND APARTMENTSMinimum for 3 lines in one issue $9 Picture and 4 lines $25 Additional lines at $2 per line Display classified $18 per column inch We can take the photo within the Marsh Harbour area or use your photo. Call 242-367-2677 Fax 242-367-3677Little Harbour. Great ocean view, furnished 2 bed with A/C, 2 baths, sun deck, screened porch, w/all amenities. Rent $850/wk. Long term rental available. Sell for $250,000 Call 242-366-3515 or 850-230-8212 Marsh Harbour 2 bed/2 bath duplex apt. fully furnished. Call 357-6947 Marsh Harbour one room efficiency and also business or office space available. Call 367-5586 Marsh Harbour one bedroom apt., fully furnished, central A/C, w/dryer. $600 per month Call 367-3190 Treasure Cay luxury beach front home, 3 bed, 3 1/2 bath, sleeps 14, all amenities. $500 nightly. Sell for $1,995,000. Call 561-738-0996 Touch of the Tropics house rentals Call 3672922 for information on a home for your next vacation. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY FOR RENTBlack Wood Elegant, fully furnished one & two bedroom apts. At entrance to Black Wood. Call 365-0614 or 554-8424 Central Abaco 2 bed/1 bath, 1 bed/1 bath, new, fully furnished, central A/C, cable hook-up, only serious apply. Call 367-3720 leave message. Great Abaco Club luxury vacation rentals with all resort amenities. Ph. 242-367-4151 www.GreatAbacoClub.com Hope Town Specialist A collection of upscale pools, docks, reunions, special occasions, honeymoons. Hope Town Hideaways. 242-3660224 Fax: 242-366-0434 RENTAL HOUSES AND APARTMENTS Bustic Bight Resort Bustic Bight Resort Bustic Bight Resort Bustic Bight Resort Bustic Bight ResortFour Guest Units Liquor Store Open till 9 p.m. Phone 367-5995 Ask for Ernestine eral persons expressed their displeasure with me because to paraphrase they said that I was trying to spoil childrens fun, especially those children who have not been to Disney World. However, when the carnival left, it left ShermanFrom Page 8 damage to the track, damage which, I am told by some track and field coaches, will be expensive to repair. Diesel oil was spilled on the track and sand was put over it. But the oil ate away the paving of the track, particularly at the finish line. In addition, the long jump pit is gone and who knows about the shot put circle. The carnival was here for two weeks. It caused Abaco Central High School not to have their Inter House Sports Meet and now it has caused the entire island of Abaco not to have the Inter School Sports Meet. What amazes me is that no one cared that the carnival was next to a school just as no one seems to care about Abaco Central High. Then when the damage was noted, no one seemed to want to take the responsibility. What kind of a signal are we sending to the young people? Especially the young people who would have participated in the track meet to qualify for the national competition. Who knows, we may have more Golden Girls as well as boys.

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March 15th, 2003 The Abaconian Page 33area comprised of high, dry grass and mixed pine and broad-leaf scrub not unlike what we might find here in Abaco. With supervision from instructors and a rigid adherence to what was learned, all of our objectives were met without injury to person or property. A fire management plan is a work in progress. It seeks to include input and training from several Abaconian and foreign entities firefighters, national and local government officials, hunters, conservationists and other community leaders. It also looks outside The Bahamas to organizations that are active in this type of forestry. On Abaco the goals of a fire management plan include but are not limited to the protection and cultivation of habitat for the Bahama parrot, the White-crowned Pigeon, other bird species and the Abaco wild horses. Reduced risks of wild fires around populated areas airports, schools, telephone towers, electrical lines and well fields are another goal for such a plan. Additionally, fire combined with other active forestry practices produces healthier trees and may work toward a sustainable timber harvesting program. All of these goals combined work toward a safer, more ecologically diverse Abaco while mitigating the undesirable effects of wanton uncontrolled burning practices and lightning induced wildfires. Please note that burning without sanction from the proper authorities is unlawful and punishable by fine and/or imprisonment. If you would like to learn more about how you can become involved with fire management or prescribed burning in Abaco, contact the Department of Agriculture representative, David Knowles at 367-2240. FireFrom Page 26 Keep up with the Happenings on AbacoSubscribe toThe AbaconianTodayMinimum for 3 lines in one issue $9 Picture and 4 lines $25 Additional lines at $2 per line Display classified $18 per column inch We can take the photo within the Marsh Harbour area or use your photo. Call 242-367-2677 Fax 242-367-3677 PROPERTY AND HOUSES FOR SALE PROPERTY AND HOUSES FOR SALE PROPERTY & HOUSES FOR SALE LIVE YOUR DREAM A LIVE YOUR DREAM A LIVE YOUR DREAM A LIVE YOUR DREAM A LIVE YOUR DREAM A TT TT TEnjoy the life style you deserve . Waterfront lots with private boat slips in a secure gated community starting at $195,000 Call 242-367-4151 or Fax 367-4152 www.greatabacoclub.com Houses and Land For Sale or RentClassified Advertisements Victor R. Patterson Memorial Plaza P.O. Box AB 20123 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Tel: 242-367-2749 E-mail: seagraperealty@hotmail.com Marsh Harbour: Waterfront lot on the Sweetings Tract. Over 200 feet of frontage and small sandy cove. $100,000 Tilloo: Shore to shore parcel in the Bight of Loo. 120 wide with good elevation in the center. Just north of Junk Beach. $165,000 Elbow Cay: Beach front lots on the Atlantic Ocean. 95-feet wide, coconut groves, $260,000 Marsh Harbour: lots on the Sweetings Tract with road and all utilities, access to water front/beach. $20,000 Lubbers Quarters: large water front and interior lots with all utilities present, private dock slip, exclusive development. Starting at $99,000Sea Grape Realty Elbow Cay 3 bed / 3bath cottage on 1/3 acre, nicely landscaped, central A/C. $190,000 Call 366-0583 Elbow Cays Best Houses and Land, Rentals and Sales, Hope Town Hideaways. Call 242366-0224 or Fax 242-366-0434. On the internet at www.hopetown.com Hope Town Conch Crawl Cottage beautiful vacation home. Accommodates up to 14 people. Leave message at 242-367-4550 Green Turtle CayOcean Beach Lots (North End) 1+ acres with good elevation from $245,000 Coco Bay Lots 81 feet on beach from $170,000 Bita Bay Ocean Lot 8.26 acres from ocean to Inner White Sound, good elevation and protection from sea, spectacular views. $1.6 M. On the internet at www.bahamasinvest.com or call 365-4271 PROPERTY & HOUSES FOR SALE HOUSE WANTEDHome located on Guana Cay or Hope Town. Offering owner financing with down payment. Please call 727-937-2159 or E-mail sailaholics@cs.com Little Harbour beautiful ocean view, 2 story, 2 or 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, living & dining room, large game room with wet bar, ceramic tile and carpet, 3 large decks including 1 screened, central air, UV water purification system, elecricity to home, plue 12.5 KW back-up generator. $499,900. Call 242-366-3515 or 477-5198 Lubbers Quarters near Hope Town. Water front houses, private docks, great views, turn-key, furnished, rental history, amenities. Owner 242366-3100. www.abacotoday.com/lubbers Marsh Harbour Duplex 2 bed 1 bath on Crockett Dr. Call Mr. Malone at 367-2044 days Marsh Harbour 3 bed, 2 1/2 bath home in Cove Estates, garage, efficiency on first level, furnished. Call 367-5586 Scotland Cay Home Sea of Abaco water front, Lg. 3 bed/3bath, workshop, modern CBS, just remodeled, terrific view, dock, marina slip, landing rights, completely furnished, extra buildable lot. $990,000. Owner 561-746-3337 Treasure Cay Paradise Found luxury home right on your own beach. Search no more. Fantastic ocean views from every room. Gorgeous new tropical decor with all amenities included. Three bedrooms, three and one half baths plus three outdoor hot showers. Easily accommodates up to 14 people. Two car garages with apartment. Rooftop sunset deck and extra large decking area to the beach. Built-in propane stainless steel grilling area. Paved semi circular drive with lushly landscaped grounds and and accent light all around. Truly One in a Million. Offered at $1,995,000. Please contact Dr. William or Dana Domeyer at 561-7380996 Helping people find their Dream Spot since 1978. Beach Front, Hilltop, Acreage, Residential, Commercial & Investment Property. We also have rental property available.LOCATED ON STRATTON DRIVE IN MARSH HARBOUR P.O. BOX AB 20404 ABACO, BAHAMAS 242-367-2719 FAX 367-2359 Abaco Real Estate Agency Ltd MUST SELLINVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY REAL ESTATE IN ABACOSandy Point 4 bed, 2 bath 13,545 sq. ft. South Street Lot #119 Dundas Town 1/2 acre, 2 storey 4 bed, 2 bath, family rm Lot #25For condition of sale and any other information, contact M. Gardiner or M. T. Rolle at 367-2141BIDS ONLYMurphy Town Incomplete duplex one unit completed comprising 3 bed, 1 bath 6,900 sq. ft. Lot #68 Murphy Town Vacant Land 11,277 sq. ft. Lot #78B Dundas Town Vacant Land 10,810 sq. ft. Lot # 21 Murphy Town Commercial building 6,500 sq. ft. Lot #70 Murphy Town Duplex 2 2 bed, 1 bath 11,232 sq. ft. Lot #78 Dundas Town L-shape triples 3 2 bed, 1 bath units 9,000 sq. ft. Area for small shop Lot #18B Murphy Town 3 bed, 2 bath Newly repaired 10,000 sq. ft. Lot #67 Treasure Cay Vacant Land Multi-family 10,000 sq. ft. Lot #65 Block #167 Sandra Evans, BRIMultiple-listing Broker sandra@abacorealtor .comDavid CoteMultiple Listing Agent david@abacorealtor.com East Bay Street Marsh Harbour, Abaco Ph: 242-367-2365 www.abacorealtor.comSERVING ALL THE BAHAMAS Eco-Investment Preserve and protect our fragile environment. Defend our precious resources with the sensitive and sustainable development of either of these two properties. One acre beach front property in conservation habitat. $117,900 One acre fronting safe guarded bird and fish sanctuary, $44,900 Rare Little Orchard Offering Safe, secure family-oriented neighbourhood. Great value, infrequent opportunity. The lucky new owner will enjoy peace and quiet, a large treed and fenced yard, a well built home and a wholesome environment. All this plus a rental apartment! $199,900 Beach Haven The ultimate beach house. Every room opens to white sand, ocean breezes, sunrise, sunsets, moonlight on the water. Tropical flowers, shells, beach glass, floats, sea fans . Paradise right off your own deck. $347,000 Boat Harbour, Guana Cay Drop anchor and come ashore for friendly, fun times. Lots of room for everyones boat, seven hilltop lots to choose from, bring the whole gang! Plenty of space to watch the sun come over the yardarm. $72,000 $90,000 Bahama Coral Island Still the best buy in a starter home site and so close to town! These properties have elevation and an incredible view. Invest in your own future now! Only $8000